Parkinson’s disease (PD) is widely recognized as the fastest-growing neurological disorder in the world*, affecting more than 10 million people, and is expected to exceed 12 million by 2040.
PD is a complex and progressive neurodegenerative disease which develops when brain cells that produce dopamine - a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating movement - become damaged or die. This lack of dopamine can cause tremor (shaking), slowness of movement, rigidity (stiffness) and difficulty with balance and coordination. Along with these motor symptoms, there are a host of non-motor symptoms such as bowel and bladder problems, mood swings, difficulty sleeping, poor concentration and general lowering of quality of life. In total there are over 40 symptoms of PD.
Parkinson's is also a boutique disease - meaning nearly every individual has their own unique set of symptoms. It changes everyday moments, not just for the person diagnosed, but for families, carers and loved ones as well.
Currently, there is no cure, but there are a number of promising new treatments in the preliminary phase of testing.