Chemicals Linked to Parkinson’s Disease: Pesticides, Golf Courses, and How to Protect Your Brain

Parkinson’s disease is on the rise worldwide, and researchers are urgently looking for answers. More than 11.8 million people are currently living with Parkinson’s, and the numbers are expected to keep climbing. What’s fueling this dramatic increase? Some scientists believe everyday chemicals — including pesticides and solvents — may be playing a bigger role than we realize.
👉 Could where you live — even something as ordinary as being near a golf course -- increase your risk of developing Parkinson’s? Keep reading to learn what researchers have discovered, what chemicals are under scrutiny, and practical steps you can take to protect yourself.

Why Parkinson’s Rates Are Rising
More than a decade ago, Michael Okun, MD, coined the term “Parkinson’s pandemic.” At the time, his warning seemed alarmist, but today the data supports his concern. Along with co-author Ray Dorsey, MD, Dr. Okun explores the global rise of Parkinson’s in The Parkinson’s Plan. Their findings suggest that environmental toxins — especially pesticides and industrial chemicals — may be key drivers of the disease’s growth.

The Pesticide Connection
Research has consistently shown that exposure to pesticides like paraquat and rotenone increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Another chemical of concern is trichloroethylene (TCE), a solvent commonly used in dry cleaning and industrial degreasing. These chemicals damage the mitochondria, the “powerhouse” of cells, disrupting brain function and potentially triggering the neurodegenerative changes seen in Parkinson’s.

Living Near Golf Courses May Raise Risk
A recent study led by Dr. Dorsey made headlines when it revealed that people who live within a mile of a golf course face a significantly higher risk of Parkinson’s. The suspected culprit? Pesticides sprayed on turf that seep into groundwater and contaminate drinking water. While more research is needed, this finding underscores the far-reaching impact of environmental exposure.

Genetics and Environment: A Dangerous Combination
Not everyone exposed to pesticides develops Parkinson’s. But for people with genetic risk factors, exposure to these chemicals can dramatically increase their likelihood of developing the disease. This gene-environment interaction is one reason Parkinson’s is so complex and difficult to treat.

Current Treatments and What’s Ahead
For now, Levodopa remains the gold standard treatment for Parkinson’s. Surgical options such as deep brain stimulation and experimental therapies like gene editing are advancing, but no current treatment slows disease progression. Understanding how toxins trigger Parkinson’s is essential to finding a cure.

While we can’t eliminate all risks, there are proactive steps you can take:

• Wash produce thoroughly to remove pesticide residue.
  
• Filter your drinking water and have it tested for contaminants like TCE.
• Exercise regularly to support brain health.
• Prioritize sleep to support brain health.

If you have been diagnosed with PD, support matters
A Parkinson’s diagnosis can feel overwhelming. But with the right support, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s disease, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.

For over 25 years, PASWFL has offered free, high-quality programs to individuals and families touched by PD, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech therapy
• Educational seminars
• Care partners and support groups

Membership is free — and everyone is welcome.
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