How to lower your Parkinson’s disease risk and slow its onset as cases rise worldwide

Parkinson’s disease has emerged as one of the fastest-growing neurological disorders worldwide, with experts projecting a dramatic surge in cases of the progressive brain disorder over the coming decades. A recent study published in the BMJ medical journal predicts that the number of people affected worldwide could more than double – from 11.9 million in 2021 to over 25 million by 2050. The biggest increases are expected in countries with large populations like China, India and the United States. While Parkinson’s often reveals itself through visible signs such as tremors, slowed movement and trouble with balance, experts say the disease starts developing long before symptoms appear – in what is known as the “silent phase”. This makes early detection and preventive care especially important. Parkinson’s occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine – a chemical crucial for movement – begin to die. A key culprit is believed to be the protein alpha-synuclein, which can clump together in the brain. However, the exact cause of the disease remains unknown. Scientists believe it results from a mix of environmental, genetic and metabolic factors. In addition to tremors, people with Parkinson’s often experience stiff muscles, trouble walking, balance problems, and reduced facial expressions or speech changes. Many also face sleep issues, a weakened sense of smell, depression, cognitive decline and even dementia. Studies suggest that a whole range of environmental toxins increase the risk of Parkinson’s, including pesticides in particular. “What many pesticides have in common is that they trigger inflammatory processes in the brain and oxidative stress,” explains neurological expert Dr Eva Schäffer from Kiel University in Germany. In addition, pesticides also alter metabolic processes and trigger other mechanisms in the brain that contribute to the disease. Air pollution and the solvent trichloroethylene, still used in some industrial settings, are also under scrutiny, Schäffer adds. Lifestyle also plays a key role: lack of exercise and a diet high in ultra-processed foods are linked to higher risk. These nutrients [in a balanced diet] support a healthy gut microbiome,. And we know there’s a strong connection between gut health and brain health Dr Eva Schäffer, neurological expert While about 10 per cent of cases are genetic, most can be influenced by lifestyle choices. “Moderate endurance exercise can cut the risk by up to 60 per cent,” Schäffer says. It doesn’t need to be a specific sport – any activity that gets your heart rate up helps. A balanced diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables and legumes is also important. “These nutrients support a healthy gut microbiome,” says Schäffer. “And we know there’s a strong connection between gut health and brain health.” Interestingly, many Parkinson’s patients report digestive issues, like chronic constipation, years before diagnosis. Healthy habits remain key even after a diagnosis. Regular physical activity and a gut-friendly diet can also help slow the disease’s progression and ease non-motor symptoms like depression or digestive problems. Medication is also essential, especially drugs that replace dopamine. “We aim for the right balance,” says Schäffer. “Too little dopamine causes stiffness, but too much can make movement uncontrolled – both of which make it harder to stay active.” Parkinson’s is not curable, but treatment can help people manage symptoms and maintain quality of life. Along with medication, physical and occupational therapy can make a major difference. In more advanced stages, deep brain stimulation (DBS) – a surgical procedure that uses implanted electrodes to regulate brain activity – may be recommended. A newer form of DBS, called beta-sensing, is showing promise. Neurologist Brit Mollenhauer, a professor at the University Medical Centre Göttingen in Germany, explains: “It not only stimulates the brain but also reads signals to fine-tune exactly when and where the stimulation is needed.” Like what you read? Follow SCMP Lifestyle on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also sign up for our eNewsletter here.

How to lower your Parkinson’s disease risk and slow its onset as cases rise worldwide

Study estimates 25 million people could have Parkinson’s by 2050. Healthy habits can prevent it or slow its progression