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Participant Stories
“I participate because it is the right thing to do, for myself, for my children, and for the millions of people who have Parkinson’s disease. Without participation there will be no cure.” –Mike, Diagnosed 7 years
Recently Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease?
If you have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) understanding the disease, and learning about the resources available to you, are good first steps.
PD Research & You
About PD
Parkinson's disease Parkinson's DiseaseA chronic, slowly progressive disease of the nervous system characterized by the combination of tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia and stooped posture, among other symptoms. (PD) is a movement disorder that is chronic and progressive, meaning that symptoms continue and worsen over time. As many as one million Americans suffer from PD. While approximately 15 percent of people with Parkinson's are diagnosed before the age of 50, incidence increases with age.
Do You Want to Be More Proactive with Your PD?
Clinical ClinicalDealing with or based on observation and treatment of people, as opposed to basic science carried out in the laboratory or in animals. studies all over the country need volunteers at all stages of the disease to help solve the unanswered questions about Parkinson’s and to develop new treatments. While there are some trials that seek participants who have recently been diagnosed, there are others that are looking for participants to have been diagnosed for several years.
Have You Been Newly Diagnosed with PD?
If you are newly diagnosed with PD and have yet to start medication there are specific research studies that you may wish to consider. Some of these trials focus on neuroprotection. NeuroprotectionRelating to mechanisms within the nervous system that can slow or stop the progression of PD by protecting neurons from cellular damage caused by the disease. In these studies, researchers are trying to determine if a certain compound might offer protection to dopamine-producing cells and thus help to slow or stop the progression of the disease.
Are you a Family Member or Friend?
Just as Parkinson’s affects each individual differently, each friend and family member of the affected person copes with their loved one’s disease in different ways. You may find yourself doing research on the disease, trying to understand it better and seeking ways in which you can contribute to the search for a cure. One way to become more involved is to participate in a clinical trial. Clinical Trial (Clinical Study)A scientific study involving human participants to determine the safety and efficacy of new therapies or new ways of using known treatments.
