Norton Healthcare brings awareness ahead of World Parkinson’s Day

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – April 11 marks World Parkinson’s Day, and doctors in Louisville are using the day to raise awareness about the disease and its early warning signs, saying earlier recognition can lead to better treatment outcomes.

Worldwide, nearly 12 million people are living with Parkinson’s disease, including an estimated 15,000 across Kentucky.

Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and often develops gradually over time.

Doctors say the most common early symptoms include slowness of movement, muscle stiffness, and tremors, which are often the most recognizable sign of the disease.

Risk factors can include age, genetics, sex, and certain environmental exposures, making awareness especially important for early detection.

“It’s important to be aware of what the signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s are, particularly if you might have risk factors or if you might have family members,” said Dr. Justin Phillips of the Norton Neuroscience Institute in Louisville. “We know it’s not typically a genetic disease in the sense that if someone in your family had it, you’re likely to get it as well. But we do know that can increase your risk.”

While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, Louisville-area neurologists say advances in research and technology are helping doctors diagnose the disease earlier and improve treatment options.

Specialists are now able in some cases to identify biological markers in nerve tissue, allowing for more accurate diagnoses even before traditional symptoms become fully apparent.

“We can look for the pathology that causes Parkinson’s disease in the nerves in the skin and make a really accurate diagnosis,” Phillips said. “This will help us diagnose Parkinson’s before you even have the actual diagnostic symptoms.”

Doctors say early detection is key, allowing patients to begin treatment sooner, which may help slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

Anyone experiencing symptoms or concerned about family history is encouraged to speak with a physician or seek evaluation from a specialist.