Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a severe progressive neurodegenerative disease in which motor neurons — the nerve cells that control muscle movement — die. As a result, muscles gradually weaken, atrophy, and lose their function.

ALS can lead to impairment of:

• limb movement,
• speech,
• swallowing,
• breathing.

The disease has a steadily progressive course, but the rate of deterioration is individual and may change over time.

Why it is important to monitor ALS progression

1. Progression can be rapid and subtle

Even over just a few weeks, the following may change:

• ALSFRS-R score,
• respiratory function,
• body weight,
• speech and voice.

2. Early detection of deterioration allows timely intervention

This helps to adjust:

• nutrition,
• respiratory support,
• physical activity,
• and prevent complications.

3. Monitoring breathing and weight affects prognosis

• weight loss worsens the course of ALS,
• decline in respiratory function may be inconspicuous.

4. Speech dynamics is an important digital marker

• assessment of dysarthria severity by AI algorithms,
• a digital model of the voice.

5. Frequent data are needed to assess therapy

Examinations every 2–3 months are not enough to understand the true dynamics of the condition.

6. Big data help to predict the disease more accurately

• progression rate,
• risk factors,
• optimal points for intervention.

7. Monitoring improves home management of the patient

• reduces the number of clinic visits,
• the doctor receives data remotely,
• improves safety and quality of care.

Regular monitoring of ALS is key to timely treatment adjustments, improving quality of life, and creating a valuable data set for scientific research.