Introduction to Parkinson's Disease

Causes of Parkinson's Disease

Researchers have been unable to identify specific causes of Parkinson's disease but there are many theories regarding factors which may individually or in combination play a role in its development. These include:

• Genetics - According to the NINDS (National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke) approximately 15-20% of patients with Parkinson's disease have a close relative who exhibited a parkinsonian symptom. There is a theory that some people may have a predisposition towards Parkinson's disease based on family history and if the right factors come together, they will develop Parkinson's disease.

• Oxidative damage - Free radicals (unstable molecules) circulating in the brain may cause oxidation which causes damage to neurons. Some researchers refer to free radicals as endogenous toxins (toxins produced by the body).

• Toxins - Exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides may cause degeneration of the dopamine producing cells.

• Occupational exposure - There is a higher prevalence in certain occupations such as welders.

• Accelerated aging of neural cells - This theory proposes that for unknown reasons, the normal wearing away of brain cells with age is accelerated in patients with Parkinson's disease so that the dopamine-producing cells "age" and die faster than normal.