5 Risk Factors of Parkinson’s Disease And How To Manage Them?

Currently, over 1 million people are affected by Parkinson’s Disease (PD) in the US alone. Although there are no definite numbers for this disease in India, some studies indicate that this number ranges from 44 to 297 per 100,000 people. 

So first, let’s start with understanding more about this disease. 

What is Parkinson’s Disease? It is a neurodegenerative condition in which specific dopamine-producing neurons are damaged — leading to impaired body movements. This is a progressive condition — it starts small with just a slight tremor in one hand but ultimately leads to stiff muscles and difficulties in movement. 

Given the prevalence of PD and its indefinite causes, it’s important to look at the risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing this disease. Some of these are genetic and cannot be avoided, however, some are lifestyle choices — which can be modified to reduce the risk of PD. 

Risk Factors of Parkinson’s Disease 

Age The older you are, the higher is your risk of getting PD. The disease is prevalent mostly in people aged 85 and above, with 5% of the age group suffering from a severe form. Thankfully, it is rare in people under 50, and if you do happen to be among the 5% to 10% of cases in this age group, chances are that you will be diagnosed as having ‘early onset’ PD. 

Sex Men are 50% more likely to develop PD than women. Though the cause of this differentiation is unknown, studies hint that lifestyle, hormonal, and reproductive factors can be some of the causes. 

Family history and genetic factors People with relatives, parents, or siblings who are already fighting PD are more likely to develop it themselves. In fact, 10% to 15% of all cases are due to genetic factors according to the US Parkinson's Foundation. Genetics can play a role in the incidence of this disease, but it is not the most accurate way to predict the occurrence of PD. 

Head trauma Several studies have indicated a link between PD and an injury of the head, neck, or upper cervical spine. For instance, a 2018 study about military veterans concluded that even a mild injury increased the risk of this degenerative disease by 56%. So, to mitigate the likelihood of this disease, people are advised to wear protective headgear while engaging in high-impact activities. 

Exposure to toxins The evidence that links exposure to harmful chemicals and the development of neurological diseases is still inconclusive but it shouldn’t be ignored. Several studies point out that certain occupations such as farming, with higher exposure to pesticides, have a higher risk of developing PD. As a practice, people should minimize contact with the following chemicals that are present in popular herbicides, pesticides, and fungicides: 

● Paraquat 

● Maneb 

● Rotenone 

Similar to many other neurological conditions, the symptoms of PD can be triggered by one or more causes. So, it’s nearly impossible to identify a particular factor that has activated the disease. However, the following steps can help in reducing the risk of PD. 

How can you lower the risk of Parkinson’s Disease? Exercise Since PD is more prevalent among the elderly, people who adopt an exercise regime early in life are at a significantly lower risk. Even during the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease, patients are advised to exercise regularly to improve mobility and reduce muscle stiffness. 

Caffeine Consumption of caffeinated beverages such as coffee and tea in moderation is linked to a lower incidence of this disease. However, causal evidence to link the two is not prominent. 

Anti-inflammatory products Recent evidence shows that inflammation can be both the cause and the result of PD. The consumption of anti-inflammatory foods such as green tea and fish oil can help prevent cell degeneration and lower the risk of PD. 

Vitamin D A majority of PD patients have been found to have lower levels of vitamin D. This strong correlation indicates that sun exposure or vitamin D rich foods, can prove useful to lower the risk of PD. 

Organic produce Since there is a strong correlation between pesticides and PD, it is advisable to consume organic fruits and vegetables. It may be very difficult to get 100% pesticide-free produce because many ‘organic’ labeled products are still allowed to use certain pesticides. So try to shop from the local farmers market where you can understand more about the origin of your food. 

Though some of these may lower the risk of PD, it’s important to note that studies have not shown conclusive evidence to conclude the merit of the above factors. But the above practices, if adopted with care, have negligible side effects and long-term health benefits.