, a pollutant produced by burning coal and oil-based fuels, is associated with an increased risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to new research published in Environmental Research.){kind=link}
Long-term exposure to sulfur dioxide (SO₂), a pollutant produced by burning coal and oil-based fuels, is associated with an increased risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to new research published in Environmental Research.
Canadian Study Identifies Alarming Trend
Researchers in New Brunswick, Canada, launched the study after noticing unusually high ALS rates in the region. They compared 304 ALS patients with 1,207 healthy individuals, using environmental data from their home addresses to estimate pollution exposure over time.
Sulfur Dioxide Emerges as Key Factor
The study found that individuals exposed to higher SO₂ levels had a 23% greater chance of developing ALS years later. While the research established an association—not causation—it highlighted sulfur dioxide as the most significant pollutant linked to the disease.
Mining and Fossil Fuels as Main Sources
High SO₂ levels are often generated through mining activities and the burning of coal or diesel equipment. Although all areas studied met Canada’s clean air guidelines, localized concentrations may still pose health risks.
Call for Stronger Pollution Controls
Researchers say further studies are needed to inform public health strategies and regulations.
“If we’re truly to get to a safe level of no pollution, combustion will have to eventually cease to be our primary method of making energy,” lead author Daniel Saucier said.
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