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LITERATURE REVIEW

Parkinson’s disease The Silent Killer

Kevin C. Martinez

California State University, Channel Islands

HEALTH 499

Professor Winans

July 30, 2023

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Parkinson's Disease the Silent Killer

In a world dominated by discussions of cancer, diabetes, stroke, and other life-threatening

conditions, Parkinson’s Disease often remains a lesser-known entity. While its fatality rate does

not match that of cancer or diabetes, the insidious nature of Parkinson’s, coupled with its

debilitating symptoms, earns it the moniker of the "silent killer." The impact of Parkinson’s

extends beyond mortality, encompassing a wide array of challenges that significantly degrade the

quality of life. Despite relentless efforts by researchers and scientists to unearth a cure, much

ground still needs to be covered. This review delves into the realm of preventative measures that

can shield individuals from the clutches of Parkinson’s, as well as the early indicators that can

signal its presence not only within oneself but within the global population. The scope of

Parkinson’s Disease transcends the individual, affecting families and casting a shadow on

financial stability as well.

Introduction

Parkinson’s Disease stands as a progressive affliction targeting the nerve cells governing

bodily movements. This disorder manifests through involuntary movements, such as tremors,

rigidity, and compromised balance and coordination. The progressive nature of Parkinson’s

poses a formidable challenge to leading a normative life post-diagnosis. (Hughes, 2007) Once

considered rare, Parkinson’s Disease has rapidly ascended the ranks of neurological disorders,

transforming into one of the most swiftly proliferating conditions. For instance, estimates in

1990 pegged the diagnosed population at 2.5 million; a mere quarter-century later, that figure

ballooned to 6.2 million. (De Miranda, 2022) Projections for 2040 anticipate another doubling,

with a projected total of 12.9 million sufferers. While Parkinson’s is accompanied by both good

and bad days, its impact on those above the age of 50 is profound. Men bear a two-fold
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likelihood of diagnosis, yet women, once diagnosed, exhibit swifter progression and elevated

mortality rates. (Cerri S., 2019) The etiology of Parkinson’s Disease remains an enigma.

Preventative Measures

In the quest to disseminate knowledge about this silent menace, reading and sharing

information assumes a critical role in safeguarding against Parkinson’s Disease. Although the

precise origins and triggers of the disease elude us, several preventive strategies warrant

consideration. Chief among them are regular exercise and a nutritious diet. While these

recommendations may appear commonplace, the collective impact of adopting a healthful diet

and maintaining a regimen of physical activity constitutes the foremost measures in mitigating

Parkinson’s risk. The type of exercise is less consequential than its regularity; integrating 60

minutes of exercise featuring motor skill engagement is pivotal. (Yau, 2019) Parkinson’s Disease

diverges from conditions like obesity or alcoholism, where abstinence or moderation can yield

tangible improvements. In the case of Parkinson’s, progression persists once diagnosed.

Furthermore, a discussion on prudent dietary habits is essential. Scientific inquiry demonstrates

that a low-fat diet exhibit promises in preventing Parkinson’s, distinguishing itself from

conventional diets. (Swanson, 2009) Notably, nicotine use and smoking exhibit an inverse

correlation with Parkinson’s Disease, although these habits herald a bevy of other health woes.

While substantiated through case studies, these measures remain contingent upon a broader

understanding of Parkinson’s onset.

Early Signs

Diverging from preventive measures and uncertainties, early indicators provide a window

into assessing the necessity for an official diagnosis. Parkinson’s Disease, as previously noted,

follows a progressive trajectory. One prominent harbinger of Parkinson’s onset is resting hand
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tremors—an anomaly distinct from the tremors associated with weightlifting. Imagine sitting at

home, reaching for a remote, and observing a subtle quiver in your outstretched hand. This

occurrence signals a clarion call for medical evaluation. Another discernible early sign manifests

during handwriting attempts, where tremors render penmanship indecipherable—a consequence

of disrupted neuron-to-neuron communication. (U.S Department of Health & Human Services).

Conclusion

Parkinson’s Disease occupies a pivotal space in my overview of The Health Science

Program, constituting one of the three driving motivations behind my healthcare career

aspirations. The passing of my grandfather in 2020 due to Parkinson’s ignited an enduring

commitment to raise awareness about the condition. The impact of Parkinson’s is deeply

resonant; it inflicted not only my grandfather but reverberated across his caregivers and those

who supported him throughout his struggle. The absence of a definitive cure underscores the

imperative for continued exploration and innovation. Ideally, future advancements may unveil

diagnostic tools and prevention protocols, curbing the escalating trajectory of this neurological

affliction. While the world’s pace remains unceasing, dedicating resources to Parkinson’s

research is a testament to our commitment to mitigating its impact. Familiarity with early

indicators empowers individuals to confront the battle if confronted with diagnosis. Support

groups and community organizations stand ready to lend assistance to those grappling with this

progressive malady. April’s recognition as Parkinson's Disease Awareness month, with April

11th designated as Parkinson’s Disease Day, offers an opportunity to unite against this

formidable adversary. The emblematic gray ribbon, accompanied by a red-topped tulip within a

circular framework, symbolizes Parkinson’s and serves as a rallying emblem. May this
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exploration illuminate readers about the early manifestations of Parkinson’s Disease and avenues

for resources and support—underscoring the fact that, indeed, we are not alone.
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References

- Swanson, C. R., Sesso, S. L., & Emborg, M. E. (2009). Can we prevent parkinson's

disease. Front Biosci, 14, 1642-1660.

- Yau, S.-Y., & So, K.-F. (2019). Chapter Two- Exercise and Parkinson’s Disease. In

Exercise on brain health (pp. 45–74). essay, Academic Press, an imprint of Elsevier.

- De Miranda, B. R., Goldman, S. M., Miller, G. W., Greenamyre, J. T., & Dorsey, E. R. (2022).

Preventing parkinson’s disease: An environmental agenda. Journal of Parkinson’s

Disease, 12(1), 45–68. https://doi.org/10.3233/jpd-212922

-Cerri, S., Mus, L., & Blandini, F. (2019). Parkinson's Disease in Women and Men: What's the

Difference? Journal of Parkinson's disease, 9(3), 501–515. https://doi.org/10.3233/JPD-191683

-Spine, M. B. &. (2018, April 1). Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s Disease (PD) Mayfield Brain

& Spine Cincinnati, Ohio. https://mayfieldclinic.com/pe-pd.htm

-Kalia, L. V., & Lang, A. E. (2015). Parkinson's disease. The Lancet, 386(9996), 896-912

-Hughes, A., Sejvar, J. J., & Bennett, D. A. (2007, June 21). Introduction to Parkinson’s disease.

Disease-a-Month. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S001150290700034X?

via%3Dihub

-U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Parkinson’s disease: Causes,

symptoms, and treatments. National Institute on Aging.

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/parkinsons-disease#:~:text=Parkinson’s%20disease%20is%20a

%20brain,have%20difficulty%20walking%20and%20talking.
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-10 early signs. Parkinson’s Foundation. (n.d.). https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-

parkinsons/10-early-signs#:~:text=%231%20Tremor,early%20sign%20of%20Parkinson’s

%20disease.

-The two best ways to prevent Parkinson's disease. UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center.

(n.d.). https://www.umms.org/bwmc/news/2021/the-two-best-ways-to-prevent-parkinsons-disease