5. Military Service: An Unexpected Battlefield
In a surprising correlation, serving in the military appears to increase the likelihood of developing ALS, regardless of the country of service. U.S. veterans, for instance, are twice as likely to be diagnosed with ALS as those who haven’t served.
The exact reason for this increased risk among military personnel remains a mystery. However, various theories suggest that it could be related to exposure to certain chemicals, extreme physical exertion, or traumatic injuries, all of which are common in military environments.
For example, veterans may have been exposed to lead, pesticides, or other toxic substances that are neurotoxic and could contribute to ALS. Alternatively, the high levels of physical stress endured by military personnel might trigger the onset of ALS in those with a predisposition to the disease.
Notably, the link between military service and ALS is not confined to any specific branch or period of service. Both war veterans and peacekeeping forces have shown a similar increase in ALS risk. It emphasizes that the risks aren’t tied to combat exposure alone but to broader aspects of military service.
While this association between military service and ALS might seem distant for many, it emphasizes the broad range of factors potentially involved in ALS development. It also draws attention to the need for comprehensive health care and monitoring systems for veterans and active service members. Additionally, more research is needed to understand and mitigate these risk factors. (5)
