Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Concerns at Little Rock AFB
Abstract
Methodology: The Defense Centers for Public Health-Dayton (DCPH-D)/Epidemiology Consult Service Division evaluated concerns regarding Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) at Little Rock AFB, specifically "commander's row." Results: DCPH-D looked for all ALS cases in anyone stationed at LRAFB between 2004-2007 but the number was still too low to conduct a reliable statistical analysis. DCHP-D also looked at the individual records of the individuals reported to have lived on commanders row between 2004-2007, who subsequently developed ALS. None of the individuals was diagnosed while at Little Rock AFB. DCPH-D conducted a data review of documented environmental surveillance at Little Rock AFB. Historical radon sampling indicated levels in compliance with health and safety guidelines. Drinking water surveillance demonstrated drinking water which meet health and safety limits mandated by Federal and State policy. Soil sampling revealed lead levels in three sites across base; none of which were located within base housing. Conclusion: Given the limitations of scientific knowledge in regard to ALS, our investigation didn't reveal any potentially shared risks associated with developing ALS. Our results are consistent with a larger study conducted by USAF investigating potential links between the exposures of workers from Kelly AFB, Texas, and ALS. Given the small number of cases, lack of known causes of ALS, and lack of known latency period of ALS, we are unable to draw any scientifically supported correlations. As ALS continues to affect our military families, anyone who knows someone, or is personally diagnosed with ALS should participate in the national ALS Registry: https://www.cdc.gov/als/Default.html. Reporting ALS in the national registry is the most effective way to ensure continue Congressional funding for research, to improve our understanding of the disease, and to develop better diagnostics and treatments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 22, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1226234
Entities
People
- Alisa Simon
- Amber Britt
- Gregory Wolff
- James Escobar
- Keith Beam
- Mark Lehman
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory