What are the key risk factors for Parkinson's disease identified by Dr. Michael Okun?

Dr. Okun highlights environmental toxins from air, water, and food, alongside genetics, as key risk factors for Parkinson's disease.

How can I reduce my risk of Parkinson's disease through daily habits?

You can lower your risk by drinking filtered water, using air purifiers, washing produce, exercising daily, and ensuring adequate sleep.

Why is Parkinson's disease growing faster than Alzheimer's disease?

The exact reasons are complex, but increased environmental exposures and a better understanding of Parkinson's progression contribute to its rapid rise.

Home / Health / Parkinson's Risk: 5 Steps to Protect Your Brain

Parkinson's Risk: 5 Steps to Protect Your Brain

10 Dec

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Summary

Parkinson's cases projected to double to 25 million by 2050.
Environmental toxins may be a significant cause for many.
Simple habits like clean water and air can reduce risk.

Parkinson's Risk: 5 Steps to Protect Your Brain

Parkinson's disease, a progressive movement disorder, is seeing a dramatic rise, with cases projected to exceed 25 million globally by 2050, outpacing Alzheimer's growth. While initially described as a "shaking palsy," modern understanding reveals it affects multiple organs, not just the brain's dopamine-producing neurons.

While genetics account for 10-15% of cases, environmental toxins found in air, water, and food are suspected as a significant underlying cause for many others. This suggests that proactive prevention is possible, moving away from the notion that developing the disease is inevitable.

Experts recommend five key strategies to mitigate risk: ensuring clean drinking water with a carbon filter, using air purifiers to remove fine particulate matter and VOCs, thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables to remove pesticide residues, engaging in daily physical activity, and prioritizing consistent, high-quality sleep to allow the brain to clear toxins.