Scientists have recently found a link between environmental factors and the development of Parkinson's disease. Generally, genetics and heredity play a role in the development of Parkinson's at a young age, but as the age of the individual increases, these factors tend to play less of a role.
At a recent meeting of the Society of Toxicology, researchers presented data demonstrating a link between exposure to fungicides, herbicides and pesticides and development of Parkinson's disease at a later stage in life. Scientists at the meeting also discussed a recent study conducted in California establishing that people who used herbicides, fungicides and pesticides around their home were almost 70% more likely to develop the disease.
Parkinson's Disease is a neuro-degenerative condition that affects 1 million Americans. Parkinson's occurs when the dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain are damaged. When these cells are damaged, the individual usually suffers from tremors and loss of mobility. The study sheds light on the increasing rate of Parkinson's in rural farm communities where pesticide and herbicide use is common.