About ALS
Environmental factors and ALS
Explore environmental factors and their relationship to ALS, how they may interact with genetics, and what the current evidence and scientific consensus tell us.
About ALS
ALS quick facts
ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. There are few effective treatments for ALS and no cure.
About ALS
ALS, MS, and MD: How do they differ?
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, and muscular dystrophy can sometimes be confused as the characteristics and symptoms of these diseases can overlap. People living with ALS, MS, and MD often require the same kinds of wheelchairs and assistive devices. However, ALS, MS, and MD are separate and distinct diseases.
About ALS
Primary lateral sclerosis
Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS) is a rare progressive neurodegenerative disease which is similar to ALS. However, ALS and PLS are not the same thing. Unlike ALS, PLS only affects the upper motor neurons. ALS affects both the upper and lower motor neurons.
About ALS
Kennedy’s disease
Kennedy’s Disease is a rare genetic disease with symptoms that are similar to ALS. It is also called spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy.
About ALS
Bulbar ALS
Bulbar ALS is a subtype of ALS that destroys motor neurons in the corticobulbar area of the brain and brainstem. This area controls muscles in the face, head, and neck including the jaw, lips, throat, and tongue.
About ALS
Non-motor aspects of ALS
The non-motor aspects of ALS can fall into many categories. In this fact sheet are some of the more common non-motor symptoms, although people living with ALS may also experience other, less common ones.
About ALS
Gene Hub
Explore ALS genetics in one place. The ALS Canada Gene Hub provides accessible information on how genetics contribute to ALS, major ALS-related genes, gene-targeted therapies, genetic counselling and testing, research participation opportunities, and updates on ALS genetics.
About ALS
ALS Guide: A resource for people living with ALS
Receiving a diagnosis of ALS can be overwhelming. You may experience many different emotions, and you may feel the need to learn more about how this complex disease will affect you.
About ALS
ReferALS Early Referral Tool
The ReferALS Tool helps healthcare professionals recognize potential signs and symptoms of ALS and supports earlier referral to a multidisciplinary ALS clinic. Early referral can help individuals access specialized care, support services, clinical trials, and research opportunities sooner in their journey.