What Are the Causes of Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson's disease is a nervous system disorder impacting movement and balance, with the exact causes still under investigation, though it's known to involve the loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain.
Genetic factors, environmental exposures (such as pesticides), and the presence of Lewy bodies (abnormal protein clumps in the brain) are all potential contributors to the development of Parkinson's disease.
Age and biological sex also influence Parkinson's risk, with advanced age being the most significant risk factor, and individuals assigned male at birth showing a higher susceptibility to the disease.
Parkinson's disease is a chronic disorder of the nervous system, which is made up of pathways of cells and neurons that send and receive signals throughout your body.
As of 2017, around 1 million people lived with Parkinson's in the United States. And, according to the Parkinson's Foundation, that number is expected to rise to 1.2 million by 2030 — each year, approximately 60,000 new diagnoses occur in the United States.
Parkinson's disease is caused by the loss of nerve cells in a part of your brain called the substantia nigra. These cells control the production of the chemical dopamine. Dopamine helps control movement in your body. But when the cells are impaired, less dopamine is produced.
This condition isn't fatal, but it can cause severe symptoms that impact everyday movement and mobility.
Hallmark symptoms include tremors and trouble with gait and balance. These symptoms develop because the brain's ability to communicate is impaired.
Researchers aren't yet certain what causes Parkinson's. Read on to learn more about several factors that may contribute to the condition.
The genetics of Parkinson's
A 2020 study including 1,676 people with Parkinson's in mainland China suggested that genes play a role in the development of the condition. An estimated 10 to 15 percent of people with Parkinson's have a family history of the condition.
In fact, a number of specific genes have been linked to the development of Parkinson's.
How do genetics factor into Parkinson's in some families? According to Genetics Home Reference, one possible way is through the mutation of genes responsible for producing dopamine and certain proteins essential for brain function.
Some newer research from 2021 indicates that treatments could potentially be tailored to a person's specific genetic background. However, more research has to first be done on genetic forms of the condition.
Environmental causes of Parkinson's disease
There's some evidence that your environment can play a role in Parkinson's disease. Exposure to certain chemicals has been suggested as a possible link to the condition. These include:
pesticides such as insecticides
herbicides
fungicides
It's also possible that Agent Orange exposure may be linked to Parkinson's, according to VA Health Care.
Parkinson's has also been potentially linked to drinking well water in some older studies, such as one from 2009. However, a nationwide study from 2020 suggested that may not be the case. More research needs to be done to determine if well water is associated with increased risk.
Some research, such as a 2020 study performed in Morocco, also links consuming excessive manganese, a necessary trace mineral, to an elevated risk of Parkinson's disease.
Not everyone exposed to these environmental factors develops Parkinson's, though. Some researchers, such as the author of a 2017 study, theorize that a combination of genetics and environmental factors causes Parkinson's.
Lewy bodies
Lewy bodies are abnormal clumps of proteins found in the brain stem of people with Parkinson's disease.
These clumps contain a protein that cells are unable to break down. They surround cells in the brain and, in the process, interrupt the way the brain functions.
Clusters of Lewy bodies cause the brain to degenerate over time. This results in decreased motor coordination in people with Parkinson's disease.
Loss of dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter chemical that aids in passing messages between different sections of your brain. In people with Parkinson's, the cells that produce dopamine are impaired.
Without an adequate supply of dopamine, your brain is unable to properly send and receive messages. This disruption affects the body's ability to coordinate movement and results in trouble with walking and balance.
Age and sex factors
Aging also plays a role in Parkinson's disease. Advanced age is the most significant risk factor for developing Parkinson's disease, according to a 2014 research review.
Scientists believe that brain and dopamine function begin to decline as your body ages, per a 2016 review. This makes a person more susceptible to Parkinson's.
A person's sex can also play a role in Parkinson's. According to 2014 research, people assigned male at birth (referred to as 'men' in the study) are more susceptible to developing Parkinson's than those assigned female (referred to as 'women').
The disease also seems to be more aggressive in males, per a 2020 review. Some researchers, including the authors of a 2015 research paper, are looking into whether sex-specific differences decrease with age.
Occupations affecting risk
Research from 2009 suggested that certain occupations may put a person at greater risk for developing Parkinson's.
In particular, Parkinson's disease may be more likely among people who have jobs in welding, agriculture, and industrial work. This may be because they're exposed to toxic chemicals. However, study results have been inconsistent, according to 2010 research.
Ultimately, more research needs to be done.
Future research
Experts have some clues as to why Parkinson's disease develops, but there's still a lot that's unknown.
Early detection and treatment are key in minimizing symptoms of Parkinson's. Advanced technologies such as genetic research, stem cell research, and using so-called neurotrophic factors to revive brain cells show promise in exploratory research.
Though treatments can help you manage Parkinson's symptoms and improve your quality of life, a cure hasn't yet been found. And more research is needed to identify the exact role that genetics and environment play in causing this disease.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Chicago Tribune
an hour ago
- Chicago Tribune
What to know about Parkinson's disease after Ozzy Osbourne's death
Heavy metal rocker Ozzy Osbourne died this week at 76, just weeks after his farewell show and about five years after announcing he had Parkinson's disease. Here's what to know about the disease: Parkinson's is a neurologic disease that robs people of control over their movements. It typically starts with tremors and is characterized by slow movement, a shuffling gait, stiff limbs, balance problems and slurred speech. About 1 million Americans are living with Parkinson's, and 10 million people worldwide, the Parkinson's Foundation estimates. It usually appears after age 60, although sometimes it can develop before age 50. The exact cause isn't known, but Parkinson's develops when cells that produce one of the brain's chemical messengers, called dopamine, begin to deteriorate and die. Dopamine transports signals to parts of the brain that control movement. Parkinson's symptoms appear after enough dopamine-producing cells die that there's too little of this neurotransmitter in the brain. According to the foundation, most experts believe genetic and environmental factors are behind the disease. Dozens of gene mutations linked to Parkinson's have been discovered and genetics account for 10% to 15% of all cases. Other factors suspected of increasing the risk include head injuries, exposure to pesticides and herbicides and where you live. Ozzy Osbourne, lead singer of Black Sabbath and godfather of heavy metal, dies at 76There is no cure but there are treatments, including medications that affect dopamine levels and a surgically implanted tremor-blocking device. Patients also can benefit from physical and occupational therapy. Symptoms worsen over time, usually slowly. The severity of symptoms and how quickly they progress varies widely between patients. In advanced cases, people may be unable to walk or care for themselves. They also can suffer from depression as well as memory and thinking problems. While Parkinson's itself isn't considered fatal, people can die from complications of the disease, including lung problems as muscle weakness impedes the ability to cough and to swallow.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
7 Superfoods That Boost Brain Health, According to RDs
These everyday foods are nutritionists' favorites for boosting memory, focus, and long-term brain health. What we eat can directly impact how our brain functions. Whether related to cognition and memory, mood, or mental clarity, all can be affected by diet throughout our lifespans. So which foods make the most positive impact on the brain? While nearly all plant foods have their benefits, there are some key types that research shows really boost brain health. And certain seafoods have anti-inflammatory benefits. Bonus: Foods that benefit your brain also benefit other body systems like your heart, digestive function, and blood sugar. Read on to learn about my top food picks with additional insights from brain health nutrition expert and Los Angeles-based registered dietitian Maggie Moon, MS, RD, author of a new book, The MIND Diet: 2nd Edition. Cruciferous Vegetables Cruciferous vegetables, including cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, and more, contain a phytochemical called sulforaphane which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can be particularly protective of the brain. Sulforophane has been researched for its role in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease, ischemic stroke, and Parkinson's disease. Leafy Green Vegetables Leafy green vegetables are one of the easiest and beneficial foods you can eat for your brain. According to Moon, 'Leafy green vegetables are rich in lutein, an antioxidant that likes to make a beeline for the eye and brain where it protects both from oxidative stress.' Moon also shared that research from the Univesity of Georgia College of Public Health suggests lutein may improve mental flexibility, essential for problem solving. How can you incorporate more leafy greens into your diet? Short-cuts are okay! 'The simplest way I've gotten people to eat more leafy greens is to encourage them to get pre-washed baby greens—they're mild in flavor and always ready. I recommend trying them in soups, salads, smoothies, grains and greens bowls, and omelets,' says Moon. Berries Berries—such as raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, mulberries, and more—pack a lot of good nutrients for the brain in a small package. They can help fight inflammation, protect cells from damage, and improve communication between neurons. While all berries are concentrated sources of polyphenols, Moon points out that blueberries (and more specifically wild blueberries) are one of the best choices, adding, 'The main type of polyphenol in blueberries are anthocyanins, which are associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline, lower oxidative stress, and improved brain cell survival.' Wild blueberries have significantly more anthocyanins per serving than regular blueberries, though Moon suggests eating a mix of berries as a snack to benefit from the variety of different brain-healthy nutrients. Look for fresh berries when they are in season near you, or head to the freezer aisle where they can be found year-round. Related: The 7 Healthiest Frozen Foods You Can Find at the Supermarket, According to Registered Dietitians Extra Virgin Olive Oil Extra-virgin olive oil, thanks to its healthy fats and plant compounds, can improve brain health (along with heart and gut health) by boosting good gut bacteria and reducing inflammation. In addition to being a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, extra virgin olive oil is packed with polyphenols which can help combat free radicals associated with cognitive impairment. A systematic review found that the consumption of olive oil may enhance cognitive functioning and reduce cognitive decline. Another large study found that people who regularly consumed more than half a tablespoon of olive oil per day had a 28% lower risk of dying from dementia over 28 years, compared with those who never or rarely consume olive oil, suggesting that olive oil may really be a superfood for the brain. Nuts and Seeds According to Moon, 'Nuts and seeds high in plant-based omega-3 ALA like walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are key for brain health because they support brain cell integrity and help fight neuroinflammation.' These are great to have on hand as a staple. Moon is an especially big fan of walnuts because 'in addition to omega-3s, walnuts also offer anti-inflammatory polyphenols, fiber to regulate serotonin, and melatonin to help clear proteins that can clump together and cause brain cell dysfunction.' For optimal storage, keep nuts and seeds in your refrigerator or freezer to avoid the risk of them turning rancid. To up your intake, include them in a smoothie, top off your yogurt or a salad, use them in a snack mix, or blend them into a sauce or dressing. Fatty Fish You've likely heard fatty fish being recommended for heart health, but they are also a key food for brain health. Because the brain and nervous system tissues are made up of fat, some research shows that these tissues benefit a lot from the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) fatty acid found in fatty fish. Several studies have linked lower levels of DHA with increased risk of Alzheimer's Disease and other cognitive problems. Aim for at least 8 ounces of seafood per week and prioritize oily fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, trout, and sardines because of their high DHA content. Related: 8 Foods High in Omega-3s That Are Good for Your Heart, Brain, and Gut Green Tea and Coffee Need another excuse to enjoy your morning brew? Coffee contains more than a thousand bioactive compounds including phytochemicals that have protect your brain. Preliminary research suggests that the polyphenols in coffee, along with the caffeine itself, may improve motor and cognitive performance in aging and protective effects against Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Similarly, green tea (Camellia sinensis) has its own set of polyphenols with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective qualities to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Aim for moderate consumption of coffee and tea (around 2 to 3 cups per day) to reap the most benefits. Read the original article on Real Simple Solve the daily Crossword
New York Post
3 hours ago
- New York Post
5 ways to make your coffee healthier this morning — without swapping milks or sugars
Call it a love affair, a morning ritual or a full-blown addiction — Americans are hooked on coffee. Across the country, two-thirds of US adults knock back an average of three cups daily. That's enough to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool more than 49 times, according to the National Coffee Association. While drinking coffee in moderation can benefit everything from your heart to your brain, there are simple ways to make your daily brew work even harder for you — even if you don't want to part with your cream and sugar habit. Advertisement 4 The number of Americans who drink coffee daily is up 7% from 2020, according to a 2025 study. WesLens/ – But first: the health benefits of coffee When you think of coffee, a caffeine boost is probably the first thing that comes to mind. But the beverage is also packed with antioxidants and other compounds that may reduce internal inflammation and protect against chronic diseases, according to Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Research shows that regular coffee drinkers may be less likely to develop type 2 diabetes, heart disease, dementia, Parkinson's and even colorectal cancer. Advertisement Studies also suggest that coffee intake could benefit mental health, support weight management, improve lung function and promote a healthy gut microbiome. Taken together, scientists say that coffee could help with longevity. For example, a review of 40 studies found that drinking two to four cups daily was associated with a lower risk of death, regardless of age, weight or alcohol consumption. Here's how to take your cup to the next level. #1. Choose your beans wisely The quality of coffee varies widely depending on how the beans were grown and processed. Advertisement When buying beans, look for the USDA organic label. These beans are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers that could harm your health. 4 Grinding beans just before brewing preserves their flavor and antioxidant content. aitormmfoto – Also, choose coffee grown at higher altitudes, such as beans from Ethiopia, Colombia and Kenya. These tend to contain more polyphenols — plant compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont. And keep in mind: Polyphenols break down as beans roast, so light or medium roasts preserve more of these beneficial compounds. Check the roast date on the bag and try to buy beans roasted within the last two weeks. Advertisement #2. Don't forget the filter Once you have your beans, how you brew matters. Studies show that brewing coffee with a paper filter is better for your health, especially for older adults. That's because unfiltered coffee contains diterpenes, compounds that can raise cholesterol. Research indicates that unfiltered coffee has 30 times more diterpenes than filtered coffee, Harvard Health reports. If you're a Keurig fan, you might want to reconsider. There is growing concern that K-cups may leach microplastics into your brew, and early research suggests those particles aren't good for your health. 4 Filtered coffee methods, like drip or pour-over, remove some of the potentially harmful substances in coffee. amenic181 – #3. Add a dash of turmeric After brewing, try adding turmeric to your cup. Advertisement This bright golden-orange spice contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound, according to Healthline. Turmeric may reduce inflammation, ease pain, support heart health, aid weight management, boost mood and improve digestion. For better absorption of curcumin, consider adding a source of fat like oil or milk to your coffee. #4. Sprinkle on some cinnamon If turmeric isn't your thing, cinnamon is a great alternative. Advertisement This spice has been prized for its medicinal properties for thousands of years, as it's packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds, per BBC Good Food. 4 Skip the sugary creamers and try adding natural spices to your coffee for a healthy flavor boost. kuvona – Research suggests cinnamon fights inflammation, protects the heart, lowers blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity. Advertisement Scientists also believe cinnamon may help prevent cancer, as well as combat bacterial and fungal infections. #5. Make it 'bulletproof' Bulletproof coffee is a high-calorie, caffeinated drink created by Dave Asprey, known as the 'father of biohacking.' It's designed to fuel your morning without carb-heavy breakfasts common in America. Fans also say it promotes fullness, supports weight management and enhances brain function. To make bulletproof coffee, combine one cup of brewed coffee with a tablespoon each of grass-fed butter (or ghee) and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, such as those derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. Advertisement Blend for 20–30 seconds until creamy, or use a milk frother in a large mug. Unlike typical morning pick-me-ups, Asprey claims bulletproof coffee provides sustained energy throughout the day without crashes.
