The Muscular Dystrophy Association, the world leader in the fight against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is adding several elements to its ALS program during May.

In observance of the 10th annual ALS Awareness Month, MDA has launched a Web site devoted to the disorder (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease) at www.als.mdausa.org. It's also expanding its programs of print public service announcements and educational seminars focused on ALS. Commemorated with a new lapel pin, MDA's ALS Division conducts the largest program of services and research for ALS of any voluntary health agency in the world.

ALS, one of more than 40 neuromuscular disorders in MDA's program, destroys motor neurons (nerve cells controlling muscles) in healthy adults and leads to complete paralysis. Survival is typically two to five years after diagnosis. In more than 90 percent of cases, the cause isn't understood. No cure exits.

MDA also assists people with ALS in buying and repairing wheelchairs, conducts support groups for those affected and members of their families, publishes The ALS Newsletter bimonthly, holds expert-led public seminars across the country, conducts chat rooms, and issues other published and videotaped materials, including a 94-page caregiver's guide.

In research, MDA was involved in developing Rilutek, the first prescription medication known to slow the destruction caused by ALS, and in discovering a genetic cause for some ALS cases. MDA-funded scientists are exploring drug therapies, stem cell research and several other avenues that may shed light on the cause of ALS and paths to treatment.