WORLD PARKINSON'S DAY

The theme of World Parkinson's Day 2023 is #Take6forPD to raise awareness of the statistic that someone is diagnosed with Parkinson's disease every 6 minutes.

Parkinson's disease is a common neurological condition that results in trembling or shivering of the limbs, slowness in performing tasks, difficulty walking and a change in walking style, as well as diminished facial expressions and speech volume. Patients with this disease struggle with daily tasks, may require assistance with household tasks, may notice changes in their handwriting, and struggle to keep up with their peers when they walk. Additionally, they might notice changes in their sleep patterns, a loss of smell, and constipation.

Every year on April 11, the world observes World Parkinson's Disease Day to raise awareness of the economic, social, and cultural effects of Parkinson's disease. It all comes together to concentrate on the inclusion, support, and acceptance of the patients who are afflicted with the illness.

In 1997, the first World Parkinson's Day was observed. The World Health Organization and the European Parkinson's Disease Association (EPDA) joined forces to launch it, focusing on fostering support for and increasing public awareness of the need for research into this illness's causes, treatment options, and prevention. It is now recognised by the WHO as a holiday and is supported by the UN.

Most people with Parkinson's disease are middle-aged or older. It becomes more prevalent after the age of 60. Male and female incidence rates are comparable. The population in rural areas is more frequently impacted than urban residents. This disease is idiopathic, which implies there is no known cause for the occurrence of Parkinson's disease.

Dopamine deficiency in the brain connections is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease can be treated with medications that raise dopamine levels in the brain. The ability to move one's limbs and walk normally will improve significantly with medication. Different types of medication work through various mechanisms to raise dopamine levels in the brain.