What is Parkinson’s Disease?

It is estimated that there are around 1 in 500 people (over 100,000 individuals) living with Parkinson’s in the UK, and although it is not a fatal illness it is degenerative. The speed of progression and how it affects individuals can also vary. 

Parkinson’s is a condition that affects neurons in the brain, which help in the coordination of balanced muscle movement.

As a result of nerve cell damage in the brain, there is a reduction in a chemical called dopamine. Dopamine helps to regulate the movement of the body, and as this is reduced body movement is affected with a range of symptoms including tremors, muscle rigidity, speech and posture. It is unfortunately long term and progressive, which means it does get worse over time. It can affect any age, but most of those who live with the disease are over the age of 50.

Treatment is possible and some individuals respond well to this, experiencing only mild symptoms. As more research is done, and treatment advances, the NHS report that most people with Parkinson’s now have a normal or near-normal life.

Unfortunately, there are some who will not respond to treatment as successfully and can face disability, alongside serious and life-threatening infections due to the strain on the body.

Will there ever be a cure?

Parkinson’s UK’s mission is to find a cure and bring forward the day when no one fears the condition. Because the condition varies so much from person to person, there may not be a single cure.  This could mean they will need to use a variety of treatments, therapies and strategies to slow or stop the progression of the condition, replace or repair lost or damaged brain cells, control symptoms and diagnose at the earliest possible stage.

Currently, treatment is not good enough, despite scientific progress. With continued research and expertise there could be a breakthrough.

How can I get involved?

There are a number of ways people can get involved in supporting Parkinson’s UK, including events, fundraising, volunteering and campaigning. 

If you want to raise awareness in your workplace Parkinson’s UK run free awareness sessions. These sessions aim to provide a public understanding of Parkinson’s, helping those who live with the condition to live as normal a life as possible.

Parkinson's Awareness Week

Parkinson’s Awareness Week is an annual opportunity to come together and raise awareness of Parkinson’s across the UK. The national campaign is run by Parkinson’s UK, who are on a mission to change attitudes, support one another and find a cure.

Further support and resources