Word On MND

Our grateful thanks to the MND Association (www.mndassociation.org)  for their contribution to our radio report, which you can hear again via the audio player at the bottom of this page.

What is Motor Neurone Disease (MND)? It is a rare and progressive neurological condition that affects the nerves (motor neurones) controlling movement. Over time, these nerves stop working, leading to muscle weakness, loss of mobility, and difficulty speaking, swallowing, and breathing. The most common form of MND is Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The disease varies in progression, but it ultimately shortens life expectancy.

What Are the Risk Factors for MND? The exact cause of MND is unknown, but several factors may contribute:

• Age – Most cases develop in people aged 50–70, though it can occur at any age.
• Genetics – Around 5–10% of cases are inherited (Familial MND), but most cases are sporadic.
• Environmental Factors – Possible links include exposure to toxins, chemicals, or heavy metals.
• Military Service – Studies suggest a higher risk among veterans, possibly due to physical trauma, exposure to chemicals, or intense physical activity.
• Lifestyle Factors – Some research suggests links to smoking, strenuous exercise, and diet, but no direct cause has been confirmed.

What Are the Symptoms of MND? Symptoms vary but often include:

• Muscle Weakness & Wasting – Usually starting in the hands, legs, or mouth.
• Slurred Speech & Difficulty Swallowing – Leading to communication and eating challenges.
• Cramps & Twitching (Fasciculations) – Especially in the arms, legs, or tongue.
• Breathing Difficulties – As the muscles controlling breathing weaken.
• Emotional & Cognitive Changes – Some people experience mood swings or mild cognitive impairment.

Who Is More Likely to Develop MND?

• People over 50 years old, though younger cases exist.
• Those with a family history of MND or ALS.
• Certain military veterans and athletes (though the reasons are unclear).
• More common in men than women, though the gap narrows with age.

What Are the Treatments for MND?

There is no cure, but treatments aim to manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

• Medications – Riluzole and Edaravone may slow progression slightly.
• Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy – Help maintain mobility and daily function.
• Speech & Communication Aids – Assist as speech deteriorates.
• Breathing Support – Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) can help with respiratory symptoms.
• Nutritional Support – Special diets or feeding tubes if swallowing becomes difficult.
• Palliative Care – Focuses on comfort, pain management, and emotional support.

Current Research & Hope for the Future. Ongoing research is exploring gene therapy, stem cell treatments, and new drugs to slow or stop the disease. Clinical trials are continually advancing our understanding of MND.  

Listen to this weeks radio report