PARKINSONS DISEASE

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Scientists find new genetic variant associated with Parkinson’s disease

About: 

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that impairs movement and can lead to immobility and dementia over time.

The disease usually occurs in older people, but younger people can also be affected. Men are affected more often than women.

The prevalence of PD has doubled in the past 25 years. India shares around 10% of the global burden of Parkinson’s disease.

Causes:

The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is not fully known yet, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms:

 Motor symptoms include slow movement, tremors, rigidity, and walking difficulties.

Non-motor symptoms include cognitive issues, mental health disorders, sleep disturbances, pain, and sensory problems.

Treatment: 

There is no cure for Parkinson disease, but therapies including medicines, surgery and rehabilitation can reduce symptoms.

Levodopa/carbidopa, a combination medicine that increases the amount of dopamine in the brain, is the most common medication.

World Parkinson’s Day: Every year, 11^th April is observed as World Parkinson’s Day