Every year on April 11th, World Parkinson’s Day is a global opportunity to raise awareness of Parkinson’s disease, encourage preventative measures, and support continued research efforts aimed at discovering a cure. Millions of people worldwide suffer from Parkinson’s disease, a degenerative neurological condition that impairs movement, cognitive function, and general quality of life.

Parkinson’s disease is typified by the death of brain cells that produce dopamine, which results in tremors, stiffness, poor balance, and slowness of movement. Although the precise reason for Parkinson’s disease is still unknown, several factors, including environmental conditions and genetic predispositions, are thought to play a role in the disease’s development.

“If left untreated, Parkinson’s disease deteriorates over time and may cause early mortality and a decline in brain function. Appropriate diagnosis is essential to successful treatment. Seventy-five percent of patients benefit from deep brain stimulation (DBS), which extends life and decreases reliance on medicines. Understanding the advantages of DBS could help to offset its high cost. When symptoms like slowness and tremors that interfere with everyday tasks and social interactions are properly treated, quality of life is enhanced. More regular life is made possible by medication, which lessens tremors and improves movement” Dr. Animesh Kar, Neurology Consultant, Narayana Hospital, RN Tagore Hospital, Mukandapur.

To manage Parkinson’s disease and enhance patients’ quality of life, preventive steps are essential. A healthy diet, regular exercise, enough sleep, stress reduction, and other lifestyle choices can help reduce symptoms and delay the course of the illness. Important components of preventative care also include limiting exposure to environmental pollutants and preserving general brain health via social interaction and mental stimulation.

On this World Parkinson’s Day, let us show our support for the Parkinson’s community by standing together, assisting those who are affected by the illness, paying tribute to those who care for them, and promoting ongoing funding for research and healthcare resources. By working together, we can increase patient empowerment, increase awareness, and create a future free from Parkinson’s disease.

Priyanka Dutta