posted 25th April 2025
Parkinson’s Awareness Month is an annual event dedicated to increasing awareness about Parkinson’s disease. It aims to educate the public about the symptoms, challenges, and research progress related to this condition. The month also focuses on supporting those living with Parkinson’s and their families, encouraging community involvement, and funding research initiatives.
arkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects around 153,000 people in the UK. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine—a chemical crucial for movement—become damaged or die. The result is a range of symptoms that can include tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and balance problems. Over time, many people also experience difficulties with speech, memory, and mental health.
While the exact cause of Parkinson’s remains unclear, a mix of genetic and environmental factors is believed to play a role. It typically affects people over the age of 60, but younger onset cases are not uncommon. With the UK’s ageing population, the number of people diagnosed is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.
Support in the UK is robust but under pressure. The NHS provides essential services, including access to neurologists, Parkinson’s nurses, and physiotherapy. Charities like Parkinson’s UK play a crucial role by offering information, helplines, research funding, and local support groups. Still, many patients and carers face long wait times and challenges accessing consistent care.
There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, but advances in research offer hope. Treatments such as medication and deep brain stimulation can help manage symptoms, and new therapies are in development. The UK is at the forefront of some exciting research, aiming not just to treat, but potentially to slow or halt the disease's progression.