Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: JeanPierreSarti on 01/02/2007 18:10:42

Title: ALS and life expectancy
Post by: JeanPierreSarti on 01/02/2007 18:10:42

I read on Wikipedia Steven Hawking was diagnosed with ALS in the 60's I believe. How has he lived to so long? I was under the impression that, sadly, most people diagnosed with ALS die within 5 years. I was just curious. Thank you for any information.

Title: ALS and life expectancy
Post by: rosy on 01/02/2007 21:27:23

I believe it is true that Hawking has hugely outlived the normal life expectancy. I have no idea how... I suspect if the doctors knew they'd be applying it to other patients...