(WISH) — Parkinson’s disease, affecting nearly 10 million people worldwide, continues to challenge researchers as they explore ways to slow its progression.
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, recent studies suggest that regular exercise and innovative treatments may help manage symptoms and delay disease progression.
Kiminobu Sugaya, neuroscience division head for the University of Central Florida, said, “All those Parkinson symptoms, all those came from the imbalance of the dopamine in a stratum.”
Fay Horak, professor of neurology at Oregon Health & Science University, said, “We know that the more active people are and the more fit they are, the better they can deal with Parkinson’s disease.”
Exercise has been shown to be beneficial for those with early Parkinson’s. People who engaged in at least four hours of moderate exercise per week experienced slower disease progression.
An experimental treatment involving a patch that uses infrared light to activate neurons is being tested. In animal studies, mice treated with the patch demonstrated improved balance and movement control.
In Europe, researchers are investigating the potential of ambroxol, a common cough medicine, to aid Parkinson’s patients. A year-long clinical trial indicated that daily use of ambroxol might prevent the worsening of Parkinson’s dementia and even slightly improve cognitive performance.
Men are 1.5 times more likely to develop Parkinson’s than women, though the exact cause of the disorder remains unknown. Factors such as head injuries and environmental influences are thought to contribute.
A Mediterranean-like diet has been associated with a delay in the onset of Parkinson’s, potentially postponing it by up to 17 years for those who adhere strictly to the diet.
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