Neurodegenerative disorder could become ‘great public health threat’ affecting 25 million, study finds

More than 25 million people are expected to be diagnosed by 2050

A recent study published in the British Medical Journal has unveiled alarming projections for Parkinson's Disease. According to World Health Organisation estimates from 2019, approximately 8.5 million people worldwide were living with Parkinson's Disease.

However, this new research warns that by 2050, this figure could skyrocket to over 25 million. The researchers are calling on public health organisations to keep a close eye on Parkinson's diagnosis rates and adjust their strategies accordingly.

While the majority of diagnoses occur in individuals over 60, the study emphasises that age is not the sole risk factor. Factors such as lifestyle, environmental exposure, healthcare access, and even education levels have been linked to the development of Parkinson's.

Parkinson's is currently the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder. It arises when the brain does not receive sufficient dopamine because the cells responsible for its production cease to function, explains Parkinson's UK.

There are presently over 40 symptoms that could suggest Parkinson's, but not all patients will experience every symptom as the disease impacts each person differently. The primary three symptoms, according to the charity, are tremors affecting specific body parts like the hands, slowed movement, and rigidity or muscle stiffness.

The study attributes the anticipated surge in diagnoses largely to the world's ageing population. However, the team highlighted a possible approach to mitigate the issue: regular exercise. They suggest that if everyone engaged in consistent physical activity, the projected figures for 2050 might see a reduction near 5 per cent.

According to their research, certain regions and demographics may have heightened susceptibility. The study forecasts Sub-Saharan Africa experiencing the most significant rise, while anticipated growth in Eastern Europe is expected to be the least marked.

Additionally, the data implies men could be at greater risk in all age brackets compared to women. In conclusion, the experts warned that Parkinson's disease 'will likely become a greater public health threat by 2050', as reported by News Medical.

They are advocating for more extensive research to validate their projections and underlined the necessity of enhanced investigative efforts into ground-breaking treatments to better Parkinson's patient outcomes and life quality. Treatment options available today encompass medication, various therapies including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy, although there's no established cure for Parkinson's disease yet.