Living Near Golf Courses May Increase Parkinson’s Risk, Study Finds

A growing body of research suggests that environmental exposure to pesticides may play a role in the development of Parkinson’s disease (PD). A recent population-based case-control study published in JAMA Network Open sheds light on a specific and perhaps surprising risk factor: living near a golf course.

In the study, researchers found that individuals who lived within 1 to 3 miles of a golf course had a significantly higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease compared to those living farther away. Even more striking, people who relied on drinking water from service areas that included a golf course had nearly twice the odds of developing PD than those whose water sources were unconnected to golf courses. The highest risk was observed among individuals living in areas where groundwater was especially vulnerable to contamination.

Golf courses are known to use a variety of pesticides to maintain turf, including organophosphates, chlorpyrifos, maneb, and 2,4-D—all of which have been previously linked to Parkinson’s. These chemicals have been shown to disrupt mitochondrial function and cause oxidative stress in brain cells, processes associated with PD. While previous studies hinted at the risks, such as anecdotal evidence from communities and small studies involving golf course superintendents, this new research provides a broader and more comprehensive look at the potential public health impact.

In addition to groundwater exposure, the study explored the possibility of airborne pesticide exposure. Even after adjusting for groundwater vulnerability, the association between proximity to golf courses and PD remained strong for those living within 1 to 2 miles—especially in urban areas. This finding suggests that densely populated neighborhoods may be more susceptible to airborne transmission of pesticides from nearby golf courses.

The study’s findings also underscore the complexity of water distribution systems. Most of the individuals in the study who lived near a golf course (about 90%) shared a common groundwater-supplied water service area. This suggests that many residents may be uniformly exposed to contaminated water, despite the distance of their homes from the golf course itself.

These findings point to the need for further research and potential policy changes. Monitoring pesticide use on golf courses, improving groundwater protection, and evaluating residential water sources could help reduce environmental exposure risks. Public health efforts aimed at raising awareness and advocating for safer pesticide practices may also be crucial in protecting vulnerable communities.
As Parkinson’s continues to rise in prevalence, understanding and addressing environmental risk factors like those associated with golf courses could be an important step toward prevention.

How PASWFL Can Help:
For over twenty-five years, PASWFL has been a trusted ally for individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s and related neurological disorders. Their mission is to improve the quality of life by offering:

• Over 25 free weekly programs and support groups
• Evidence-based wellness initiatives like movement and balance classes
• Educational resources led by experts in the field
• Support for care partners and families
• Advocacy and outreach in the Southwest Florida community

Best of all, membership is completely free and confidential.

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To learn more, visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org and discover how PASWFL empowers people to live well with Parkinson’s—no matter the type.

Citation:
Krzyzanowski B, Mullan AF, Dorsey ER, et al. Proximity to Golf Courses and Risk of Parkinson Disease. JAMA Netw Open. 2025;8(5):e259198. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.9198