By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Legendary American singer, Roberta Flack, recently passed away at the age of 88, three years after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2022.
According to a statement from her family, the singer, best known for timeless hits such as ‘Killing Me Softly With His Song’ and ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’, died on Monday.
Flack had revealed in 2020 that motor neurone disease had left her unable to sing.
However, she was not the only notable figure to have been diagnosed with the illness. Other well-known individuals who have suffered the same fate include Prof. Stephen Hawking, Lou Gehrig, Jason Becker, and David Niven, among others.
This article by Tribune Online explores the meaning, symptoms, causes, and diagnosis of motor neurone disease.
What Is Motor Neurone Disease?
Motor neurone disease (MND), also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
This disease leads to the degeneration of motor neurones, which are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements.
Symptoms
- Muscle Weakness
The most common initial symptom is muscle weakness, which typically starts in one area of the body and gradually spreads.
- Difficulty Speaking and Swallowing
As the disease progresses, individuals may experience slurred speech and difficulty swallowing.
- Muscle Atrophy
Over time, affected muscles may waste away, leading to paralysis.
- Emotional Changes
Some patients may experience uncontrollable episodes of laughing or crying due to the disease’s impact on the nervous system.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Genetics
About 5–10% of ALS cases are familial, meaning they are inherited through genetic mutations.
- Age and Gender
MND typically occurs in individuals aged 40 to 70, with men being slightly more affected than women.
- Environmental Factors
According to Healthline, research has suggested a possible link between ALS and exposure to certain toxins, heavy metals, and military service.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing MND can be challenging, often taking about a year after symptoms first appear. There is currently no widespread screening for the disease.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy after diagnosis ranges from two to five years, although some individuals may live longer. Notable figures like Stephen Hawking lived for decades after their diagnosis, highlighting the variability in disease progression.
Treatment Options
- Medications
While there is no cure for MND, certain medications can help slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms. According to Healthline, some FDA-approved drugs include Riluzole, Edaravone, and Sodium Phenylbutyrate.
- Supportive Care
Non-pharmacological treatments such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and nutritional support are crucial for improving quality of life.