Scientists have found that consistent and intense exercise can increase your risk of developing Motor Neurone Disease, if you are genetically at risk.
A team of scientists at the University of Sheffield are making it clear, they do not want people to stop exercising. However, they do want to encourage people to get screenings if they are at a higher risk.
The connection between the two has been known for a long time, however there is a debate surrounding cause and coincidence between scientists for years. A study, which investigated Italian footballers, has shown a conclusive risk factor between exercise and motor neurone disease.
Professor Dame Pamela Shaw of the Neuroscience Institute in Sheffield says the research goes a long way in “unravelling the link in high levels of physical activity and the development of MND”. It is thought that the cause is a lack of oxygen in the body causing oxidative stress. This affects the motor neurones which are the biggest cells in the body demanding oxygen.
The team used a technique called the Mendelian randomisation to analyse genetic samples from over half a million people. The results show that the genes known to increase MND risk change their behaviour when exercising. It also goes on to show that those with these genes develop MND quicker when regular, strenuous exercise is part of their daily routine. .
What is Motor Neurone Disease?
Motor Neurone Disease, otherwise known as MND, us a condition which affects the nerves and brain. Whilst sufferers do live years with the condition, it is nearly always terminal.
Medicines, physio therapy and speech therapy can help to delay or manage the symptoms. Sufferers will experience extreme muscle weakness, twitches, slurred speech and even difficulty swallowing. The disease is degenerative meaning people will become worse over time.
It is not known why the motor neurones cease to work. This discovery is a huge step forward for scientists continuing to work on a cure. Dr Brian Dickie from Motor Neurone Disease Association says more research is needed.
He believes the key is to not research the environmental and genetic components of MND separately, but piece them together.
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