New cause of Parkinsons disease revealed

Alarming new evidence has revealed that exposure to pesticides may be linked to the development of Parkinsons disease.

A US study has found that people who are exposed to pesticides are 70% more likely to develop Parkinsons disease within the next 10 years.

The researchers used data from a Cancer Prevention Study begun in 1982 that included questions about occupation and exposure to pesticides and other potentially harmful materials.

In 2001, 143,325 individuals completed a follow-up survey. Of these people, 413 had developed Parkinsons disease. It was concluded that people who had been exposed to pesticides were 70% more likely to develop the disease after age, sex, and other risk factors were taken into account.

Interestingly, exposure to other occupational hazards, including asbestos, chemicals, acids, and stone dust did not lead to an increased risk of developing the disease.

Previous studies on the link between Parkinsons and pesticides have always returned inconclusive results. This study provides much stronger evidence of the link, but further research is needed to see which pesticide or class of pesticide is involved.

Remember: At present there is no known cause for Parkinsons disease. Worldwide research is investigating possible causes including links to pesticides.

Source: Annals of Neurology, June 2006 http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/abstract/112660877/ABSTRACT