AAN

AAN 2026: Morning chronotype, more movement tied to lower ALS risk

March 2, 2026

A preliminary study to be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 78th Annual Meeting reports that people with a morning chronotype (“early birds”) had a 20% lower risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) compared with night owls, while those engaging in more physical activity had a 26% lower risk. The analysis followed more than 500,000 individuals for an average of 14 years, during which 0.14% developed ALS.

Clinical takeaway: For clinicians counseling patients on neuroprotective lifestyle strategies, this study reinforces the potential value of promoting consistent, earlier sleep-wake routines and encouraging higher daily physical activity—both linked to lower observed ALS risk, though further research is needed to confirm causality.

Source:

(2026, February 25). American Academy of Neurology. Being an early bird, getting more physical activity linked to lower risk of ALS [Press release]. https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/home/PressRelease/5318