Carlos Nobre Reportedly Diagnosed With ALS

Overview

• Aloizio Mercadante publicly announced the diagnosis during COP31 in Turkey, and one national report said the scientist’s family and team confirmed the news to a broadcaster.
• Esclerose Lateral Amiotrófica (ELA or ALS) is a rare, progressive nerve disease that causes gradual loss of muscle control for speaking, swallowing, moving and breathing and has no cure.
• Brazil’s health authorities say about 10% of ALS cases are linked to genetic mutations while other causes remain unclear, and survival past five years is limited for many patients.
• The public health system (SUS) provides the drug riluzol to slow disease progression and offers specialized rehabilitation services that aim to preserve function and quality of life.
• Nobre’s diagnosis has drawn broad attention because of his role in Amazon and climate science, and journalists and the public are watching for a direct statement from him and updates on his care and prognosis.