Hand symptom that could indicate neurodegenerative condition predicted to become ‘public health threat’

It could become a global health concern in the next 25 years

A new study in the British Medical Journal revealed staggering statistics for the future of a dangerous neurodegenerative condition. Estimates from the World Health Organisation in 2019 showed around 8.5 million people globally were living with Parkinson’s Disease.

By 2050, the new study has warned this could accelerate dramatically to over 25 million. Researchers are urging public health bodies to closely monitor the rates of Parkinson’s diagnosis and adapt accordingly.

While most people are diagnosed over the age of 60, the study highlighted that age isn’t the only risk factor. Lifestyle, environmental exposure, access to healthcare and even things like education have been associated with Parkinson’s development.

It is currently the second most common neurodegenerative disorder and occurs when a person’s brain does not receive enough dopamine because the cells that make it have stopped working, according to Parkinson’s UK.

There are currently over 40 symptoms that could indicate Parkinson’s but not everyone will experience all of them as it affects each patient differently. The main three according to the charity are tremors that affect certain parts of the body such as the hands, slowness of movement and rigidity, or muscle stiffness.

The study claimed the staggering rise in diagnoses would largely be a result of the world’s aging population as most people are diagnosed after they have hit their 50s. However, they also noted a potential solution. They believe if everyone stuck to regular physical activity, the predictions for 2050 could drop by nearly 5 per cent.

The researchers noted that specific areas of the world and people may face an increased risk. Sub-Saharan Africa was predicted to have the biggest increase while Eastern Europe was set to have the smallest while men could face a higher risk across all age groups than women

Ultimately, the researchers warned that Parkinson’s “will likely become a greater public health threat by 2050”, as reported by News Medical and called for more studies to ensure the accuracy of their predictions. It also emphasised the need for further research into developing treatments to improve Parkinson’s prognoses and quality of life for patients.

Currently, treatment for the condition includes the likes of medication, physiotherapy, occupational therapy or speech and language therapy. There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s.