How Common Is Parkinson's?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders in the world, yet many people are surprised to learn just how widespread it is. So, how common is Parkinson’s? The answer reveals the significance of awareness, early detection, and community support for those affected.

​Parkinson’s disease affects more than 10 million people worldwide, with approximately 1 million of those individuals living in the United States. It is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, following Alzheimer’s. Each year, around 90,000 new cases are diagnosed in the U.S. alone, and that number is expected to increase as the population ages.

The likelihood of developing Parkinson’s rises with age, and it most often begins around the age of 60 or older. However, young-onset Parkinson’s, which affects individuals under the age of 50, accounts for about 5-10% of all cases. Men are also about 1.5 times more likely than women to be diagnosed with PD.
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With such a large and growing population affected by the disease, Parkinson’s isn’t rare—and it touches nearly every community, including here in Southwest Florida.

Why Awareness Matters
Even though millions live with Parkinson’s, it often goes underdiagnosed or is mistaken for other conditions, especially in its early stages. Common symptoms like tremors, stiffness, or slowness of movement can be subtle or attributed to aging. But early diagnosis and intervention can make a major difference in managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life.

Because Parkinson’s is progressive, it affects not just movement but also mood, sleep, digestion, and more over time. That’s why education and access to resources are so important for both individuals and their caregivers.

A Community Resource: Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida
Organizations like the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) are leading the charge in improving lives for people with PD. For over twenty-five years, PASWFL has provided effective programs and services that improve the quality of life, educate, enrich, and empower Southwest Floridians living with Parkinson’s and other related neurological conditions.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups tailored to the needs of both individuals with Parkinson’s and their care partners. These include wellness 
classes, educational workshops, support groups, and more—helping people stay active, informed, and supported in their journey.

Importantly, there are no fees associated with becoming a member. The goal is to make support and connection accessible to all.

Ready to Learn More or Get Involved?

• Click here to sign up for the free PASWFL newsletter
• Click here to join PASWFL for free and become part of the community

To explore programs, services, and more, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org.