Scientists Thought Parkinson's Was in Our Genes. It Might Be in the Water
2 days ago
- #TCE exposure
- #Parkinson's disease
- #Environmental health
- Amy Lindberg, a retired Navy officer, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) at 57, despite being fit and healthy.
- Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder causing loss of muscle control and other symptoms, with no known cure.
- Research has traditionally focused on genetics, with figures like Sergey Brin and Michael J. Fox contributing significantly to genetic research funding.
- However, only 10-15% of Parkinson's cases are linked to genetics, suggesting environmental factors play a major role.
- Exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE), a chemical found in contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, is strongly linked to higher Parkinson's rates among veterans.
- Studies by researchers like Sam Goldman and Briana De Miranda show TCE exposure leads to neuron damage similar to Parkinson's in mice.
- The EPA moved to ban TCE in 2024, but regulatory challenges persist, with many chemicals remaining untested for safety.
- The concept of the 'exposome'—tracking lifetime environmental exposures—emerges as a new frontier in understanding chronic diseases like Parkinson's.
- Lifestyle and environmental changes, such as filtered water and reduced chemical exposure, can mitigate risks.
- Exercise, particularly high-intensity interval training, has been shown to slow Parkinson's progression and improve neuron function.