Florida’s persistent blue-green algae problem in waterways has already been linked to respiratory problems.
Now, a team of researchers, led by a University of Miami neurology professor, have found that the toxin in those algae blooms can lead to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a debilitating and progressive neurodegnerative disease that destroys nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
On the positive side, the new study also found a promising advancement in the treatment of ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
Image Credit: Miami Herald
This California Department of Water Resources video tells how to spot the blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) and understand why it’s important to heed posted warning signs. DWR regularly tests waterways for the algae and posts when the water is safe. BY DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES
