Parkinson’s Disease on the Rise: Pesticides, Prevention, and New Research

When neurologist Michael Okun, MD, first used the phrase “Parkinson’s pandemic” over a decade ago, his warning was dismissed as alarmist. Today, the numbers show he may have been ahead of his time. In 2020, Dr. Okun projected there would be 12 million people living with Parkinson’s by 2035.
Shockingly, the latest estimates already put the global number at 11.8 million cases — and rising rapidly. As he told Katie Couric Media, “The growth has been explosive.”

This dramatic increase in Parkinson’s disease cases is sparking urgent questions: What’s driving the rise? What can be done to slow it? And how can individuals protect themselves?

Dr. Michael Okun - Neurologist UF Health

Why Parkinson’s Rates Are Climbing
Researchers now believe environmental exposure plays a major role in the global increase. For more than two decades, studies have shown strong links between Parkinson’s and exposure to certain chemicals, particularly pesticides. Two widely used ones — paraquat and rotenone — have been tied to higher rates of Parkinson’s, along with trichlorethylene (TCE), a chemical still used in dry cleaning and industrial degreasing.

Pesticides used in farming — including paraquat and rotenone — tied to PD

Dr. Okun and co-author Ray Dorsey, MD, point out that these patterns are not isolated to one region but are showing up worldwide. Alarmingly, a recent study led by Dr. Dorsey suggests that people living within a mile of golf courses — where heavy pesticide use is common — face a much higher risk of developing Parkinson’s. Researchers suspect that chemical runoff contaminates groundwater and drinking supplies, creating widespread, long-term exposure.

trichlorethylene (TCE) - a chemical used in dry cleaning - linked to PD

How Chemicals Affect the Brain
So why do these pesticides matter? The science points to their impact on mitochondria — the powerhouses of our cells. When mitochondria are impaired, the brain struggles to maintain balance, or homeostasis. For individuals who already carry certain genetic risk factors for Parkinson’s, exposure to pesticides can act as a powerful trigger, dramatically increasing their chances of developing the disease.

Filter Drinking Water

Current Treatments and Future Hope
Despite the alarming rise, treatment options remain largely the same as they were half a century ago. Levodopa, introduced in the 1960s, is still considered the gold standard for easing symptoms, though it does not slow disease progression. Surgical interventions, such as deep brain stimulation, and experimental gene-editing therapies are providing new avenues of hope. Still, as Dr. Okun emphasizes, more research is needed to better understand where Parkinson’s begins and how it spreads before a cure becomes possible.

Wash Fruits & Vegetables

What You Can Do to Lower Your Risk
While much of the research is ongoing, Dr. Okun offers practical steps for protection:

• Wash produce thoroughly to remove pesticide residues.
• Test and filter drinking water, especially if you live near golf courses or areas with heavy agricultural use.

Exercise regularly and maintain good sleep habits, both proven to support brain health.

Why Support Matters
A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.

Did you know? The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) hosts monthly talks that members can join live on Zoom, featuring world-renowned Parkinson’s specialists like Dr. Michael Okun. These sessions give you the chance to hear the latest research, ask questions directly to experts, and connect with others in the community. Can’t make it live? Recordings of past talks are available anytime on our website: https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/recordings.html.

For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services and programs to individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida. Their goal is simple: help people live well with PD, regardless of where they are in their journey.
Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs and support groups, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech Exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support for care partners
• Support groups

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by PD.
Take the First Step Toward Living Well
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
👉 Click here to sign up for the PASWFL newsletter
👉 Click here to become a member (it's free!)
To learn more, visit www.paswfl.org and discover the power of support, education, and community.