Parkinson’s disease, characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, has a growing prevalence with uncertain causes. Research since the 1980s has explored the potential neuron-damaging effects of chemicals, particularly pesticides and herbicides, in relation to Parkinson’s disease. Despite known risks, these chemicals continue to be widely used.
A recent study identified a link between exposure to 14 pesticides and an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, adding to the evidence that environmental toxins may play a role in its onset. This neurological disorder, currently the fastest-growing of its kind worldwide, is marked by the accumulation of alpha-synuclein proteins (Lewy bodies) in the brain, affecting motor control.
The research, yet to be peer-reviewed and funded by the Michael J. Fox Foundation, was presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 76th Annual Meeting. It analyzed data from over 21 million Medicare beneficiaries in the U.S., correlating it with county-level pesticide usage data from 1992-2008. The findings highlighted a dose-dependent risk increase with three specific pesticides – simazine, lindane, and atrazine, which are restricted in the EU and UK.
Dr. Brittany Krzyzanowski, lead researcher from Barrow Neurological Institute, emphasized that this study builds on previous work showing a strong association between Parkinson’s disease and cropland density. The focus is now on identifying specific pesticides driving this correlation.
However, determining a direct causal link between pesticide exposure and Parkinson’s is challenging due to various factors, including dietary changes, job changes, and diverse types of pesticide exposure. These findings support the argument for more stringent regulations and safety assessments of chemicals used in agriculture, as the implications for public health are significant, especially for those working with or living near treated farmlands.