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What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system. PD
occurs due to the loss or death of brain cells that produce dopamine. Symptoms usually start on  one side of the body and extend to the other side through time. The presentation and progression of the disease are unique to each person. Presenting symptoms vary, and people with PD may experience resting tremors (shaking), slowness, rigidity (stiffness), difficulty walking, and balance problems. Since the symptoms affect movements, PD is classified as one of the movement disorders.

The most common diagnosis age is above 60 years old, and those diagnosed younger than 50 are considered young-onset PD.

Statistics

    • PD has affected more than 10 million people worldwide.
    • Incidence of PD increases with age.
    • The typical age of diagnosis is around 60, but about four percent of people with PD are
      diagnosed before age 50.
    • Men are 1.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with PD than women

Cause

The exact cause of PD is unknown. However, researchers agree that PD is caused by the
combination of environmental factors and genetics.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PD differ from person to person. Symptoms gradually change as the disease
progresses. Symptoms typically present between the ages of 50 and 60. Initially, the symptoms may not be noticeable by the patients, families, or friends.

Click here to read more about the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.