How Does the Environment Affect Risk for Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a disease that causes neurons that produce dopamine to die. As dopamine levels drop, the body is no longer able to coordinate the movement of the muscles. PD is a progressive disease, which means that it gets worse as time goes on. The estimated number of people with PD in America is 500,000. Even with so many people diagnosed with PD, scientists still aren’t certain of the exact causes. Scientists believe that genetics play a part, but research is showing that the environment may also be a factor in causing PD.

Lexington NC – How Does the Environment Affect Risk for Parkinson’s Disease?” width=”300″ height=”200″ /> Homecare Lexington NC – How Does the Environment Affect Risk for Parkinson’s Disease?

Pesticides

Research indicates that being exposed to pesticides is linked with an increased risk of being diagnosed with PD. Most of the research centers around people who were exposed to pesticides at work. This is because tracking pesticide exposure in the home is more difficult. However, this does not mean the pesticides people use in their yards and gardens does not affect risk. In fact, one study did show a correlation between PD and home pesticide use.

The most common pesticides associated with PD are organochlorine insecticides. The use of these insecticides was banned decades ago, but since they do not break down easily, they can remain in the environment for a long time.

Occupation

Certain occupations are associated with a higher rate of PD, though there is some inconsistency in study results. For example, some studies indicate that welding puts people at higher risk, but some studies do not link the two. However, agricultural and industrial occupations have been linked to PD in multiple studies. This may be because people who work in agriculture and industry are exposed to more chemicals, but experts believe that additional research is still needed.

Metal Exposure

Exposure to certain metals is of interest to researchers studying the disease. Manganese exposure has been shown to cause manganism, which is a form of PD. Yet, a recent review indicated that welders exposed to manganese don’t appear to have an increased risk. Scientists have measured lead levels in blood serum and bones and found a link between lead and PD.

For now, the cause of PD remains a mystery. There may be environmental factors involved, but scientists concur that the likely cause is a combination of the environment and genetics. They suggest that a person’s genetics set them up for being more likely to get PD, but the environmental factors they are exposed to trigger the disease.

If you have a senior family member with PD, hiring a homecare provider to assist with their care can be extremely beneficial. A homecare provider can help your family member to perform the tasks that become difficult because of Parkinson’s symptoms. Home care providers can help with dressing, personal care, and bathing. They can also help with meal preparation, light housecleaning, and medication reminders.

Sources:  http://www.pdf.org/environment_parkinsons_tanner
http://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/what-is-parkinsons/Environmental-Factors-and-Parkinsons
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/assets/docs_p_z/the_role_of_the_environment_in_parkinsons_disease.pdf

If you or an aging loved one are considering Homecare Services in Lexington NC, please contact the caring staff at Tender Hearted Home Care today. (704) 612-4132.