Proximity to Harmful Algal Blooms May Reduce Survival in ALS Patients

A recent study highlights a concerning link between living near harmful cyanobacterial algal blooms and decreased lifespan in individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). These algae, often called blue-green algae, tend to proliferate in coastal waters and the Great Lakes, especially during warm seasons, and produce toxins that can negatively impact human health. Researchers from the University of Michigan examined ALS patients treated at the Pranger ALS Clinic, assessing their exposure to cyanobacteria based on residence and activity histories, along with satellite data from the Cyanobacteria Assessment Network.

The findings reveal that many participants resided within three miles of a harmful algal bloom, and those living near these toxic water bodies experienced a nearly one-year shorter survival period. The exposure is more significant in cases where individuals engaged in activities like swimming, boating, or relied on contaminated well water sources, which increase the risk of toxin contact. Cyanobacteria release various harmful agents, including ß-methylamino-L-alanine, a toxin linked to neurological damage and found in the cerebrospinal fluid of ALS patients.

Lead researcher Dr. Stephen Goutman emphasizes that harmful algal blooms are an expanding concern nationwide, affecting a growing number of communities. The toxins produced by cyanobacteria are associated with several neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. While genetics play a role, environmental factors such as toxin exposure are seeing increasing attention for their contribution to disease progression.

The study suggests that individuals living near cyanobacteria blooms—common in many inland lakes—may face a higher risk of earlier disease progression and mortality. The findings support the importance of monitoring environmental toxin exposure and considering water safety measures as part of managing ALS outcomes. Continued research aims to better understand how cyanobacterial toxins influence neurodegenerative processes and how exposure over a lifetime might impact disease development and survival.

This research underscores the need for awareness and regulation regarding water quality and environmental toxins, especially as harmful algal blooms become more frequent due to climate change and pollution. Protecting vulnerable populations from such environmental risks could be a vital step in improving prognosis and quality of life for those affected by ALS.