Global study warns Parkinson's to affect 25 million by 2050: Early intervention is the key to save lives, know the symptoms

A chronic neurological disease with no cure, Parkinson's disease will hit 25.2 million individuals across the globe by 2050, up 112% from 2021, based on recent research. The surge in cases highlights the need for awareness, early detection, and proper treatment measures to control symptoms and enhance the quality of life for patients.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder that essentially involves movement due to the loss of nerve cells that produce dopamine in the brain over time. This results in symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and slowing of movement. Nevertheless, Parkinson's develops gradually, and its early signs are commonly confused with the normal process of ageing.

Recent worldwide evidence points to an acute increase in diagnosed cases. GlobalData forecasts that the population of Parkinson's cases in seven key nations - the US, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Japan - is set to go up from 2.16 million in 2023 to 3.15 million in 2033. In India, the incidence rate is estimated at around 42.3 per 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a developing public health issue.

World Parkinson's Day 2025

Observed every year on April 11, World Parkinson's Day is meant to raise awareness, eliminate stigma, and spur investments in research. The day also urges governments, policymakers, and non-governmental organizations to step up funding for studies on Parkinson's and public education campaigns.

Through enhanced awareness, healthcare providers hope to encourage early diagnosis, where patients receive treatment in good time to limit disease progression and maintain an improved quality of life.

Early symptoms that are easily missed

• Micrographia: A visible change in handwriting, making it smaller and more cramped.
• Anosmia: A decrease or complete loss of sense of smell, often many years before other symptoms.
• REM sleep behavior disorder: Acting out dreams through movements like kicking or screaming.
• Stiffness or rigidity: Sudden tightness in the limbs or trunk.
• Decreased arm swing: One arm is swung less or feels stiff when walking.
• Stooped posture: New onset of forward-leaning posture.
• Hypomimia: Decreased facial expressiveness, resulting in a "masked" face.
• Hypophonia: Softer or more monotonous voice.
• Persistent constipation: Persistent constipation that does not respond to diet.

Because these symptoms can so easily be confused with changes of ageing, early referral to a neurologist is critical.
Treatment options

While there is no cure for Parkinson's disease, several treatment strategies are designed to reduce symptoms and improve mobility.

Complementary therapies and lifestyle adjustments

Dietary adjustments play a key role in coping with Parkinson's symptoms. Engaging in daily exercise like yoga, stretching exercises, and physiotherapy improves mobility and reduces stiffness. Furthermore, proper dietary habits and eating food loaded with antioxidants and nutrients enhances neurological function.

The role of nutritional supplements

Some nutritional supplements could prove effective in alleviating Parkinson's symptoms and promoting good health:

• Vitamin D: Helps with bone and brain development and is often found deficient among Parkinson's patients.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Assist in reducing inflammation and aiding neuron function.
• Vitamin C: A strong antioxidant that aids brain function.
• Vitamins B6 and B12: Essential for neurological health and symptom management.

Though these supplements hold promise, patients must speak with their healthcare provider before incorporating them into their regimen.
Looking ahead: The future of Parkinson's research

With the incidence of Parkinson's disease increasing, scientists are working on new treatments, such as gene therapy and stem cell research, to create more effective treatments. More funding and international cooperation will be necessary in bringing these medical advances forward.