Central West NSW: MND link to environmental factors probed
Researchers are investigating a potential link between environmental chemicals and a high incidence of motor neurone disease (MND) in Central West NSW, Australia. Data shows that regional Australians are 40% more likely to die from MND than those in metropolitan areas.
Why it matters
Identifying environmental triggers for MND could lead to significant public health interventions and policy changes in rural regions.
Where you live could increase your chance of developing motor neurone disease (MND), with Central West NSW in the spotlight.
All articles from our website & app The digital version of Today's Paper All other regional websites in your area Continue A study published in the Medical Journal of Australia in March 2026, showed a 250 per cent increase in the number of MND deaths Australia-wide, from 1986 to 2023.
The study also determined people living in regional areas are 40 per cent more likely to die from MND than people living in metropolitan areas.
Motor Neuron Disease Research Centre and Professor of Neurology at Macquarie University, Dominic Rowe. Now, the clinical leader at the Motor Neuron Disease Research Centre and Professor of Neurology at Macquarie University, Dominic Rowe, is refining that search even further, looking at Central West NSW specifically.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in