PARKINSON’S AWARENESS MONTH
National Parkinson’s Awareness Month in April encourages us to participate in one or more events near you supporting further research bringing us closer to a cure.
Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder. Over time, this slowly progressing condition causes tremors, gait and balance issues, limb stiffness or rigidity, and a slow muscle movement. While each person responds differently to the disease, complications often become serious.
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with the disease each year. While young adults are rarely diagnosed with Parkinson’s, the risks increase with age. Beyond age, other risk factors include:
- If a close relative has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, your risk increases.
- Men are more likely than women to be diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
- Herbicides and pesticides may pose a slight risk for Parkinson’s.
There is no cure, and more research is needed. Awareness, treatments, and education go a long way to supporting those affected by the disease, but they are not a cure.
HOW TO OBSERVE #ParkinsonsAwarenessMonth
- Learn more about Parkinson’s, its symptoms, and what is being done to find a cure.
- Support those with Parkinson’s. Be there for friends and family.
- Donate to organizations funding research and support for those with Parkinson’s.
- Host a fundraiser or awareness event.
- Participate in local events.
- Visit parkinson.org to learn more about Parkinson’s and get involved.
- Use #Parkinson’sAwarenessMonth to share on social media.
PARKINSON’S AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY
Parkinson’s Awareness Month has been observed since 1983.
