Elevated rates of MND found in regional Australia
Researchers have identified unexpectedly high rates of motor neuron disease (MND) in regional New South Wales, Australia. The study highlights a potential link between these elevated incidence rates and areas with intensive agricultural activity.
Why it matters
Mapping disease clusters in specific regions can help scientists identify environmental triggers and improve public health interventions for neurodegenerative conditions.
A study has found elevated rates of motor neuron disease in parts of western NSW. Photo: Dean Lewins/AAP PHOTOS People across a vast swathe of Australia are developing a deadly disease at more than four times the global average.
All articles from our website & app The digital version of Today's Paper Crosswords, Sudoku and Trivia All other regional websites in your area Continue Researchers found a motor neuron disease (MND) incidence rate of 3.72 cases per 100,000 people annually across western NSW.
In some areas, the prevalence of MND was up to seven times higher than expected, with several higher-incidence regions overlapping with areas of more intensive agricultural activity.
The global burden of MND is increasing, and in 2021 the age-standardised prevalence and incidence were estimated at 0.77 cases per 100,000 people.
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