Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a gradually progressive disorder of the brain that affects movement, causing tremors and stiffness. First described by English physician Dr James Parkinson in 1817, it can also include other symptoms like sleep disruption, loss of smell, speech and swallowing problems, cognitive impairment, depression and anxiety.
80,000There are about 80,000 Australians living with Parkinson’s disease
< 45yrsParkinson’s disease is usually diagnosed around the age of 65, but one in 10 will be diagnosed before they are 45
RiskMen are slightly more at risk of developing Parkinson’s than women
15-64yrsNearly 1 in 5 sufferers are aged between 15‐64, having what is known as ‘early‐onset’ Parkinson’s
28 daily28 Australians are diagnosed with Parkinson’s every day
Parkinson's research at Garvan
Research into Parkinson’s disease (PD) at Garvan is multifaceted, focusing on early PD and its causes, new neuroprotection therapies to prevent progression, brain regeneration and repair, and of course, prevention. Two groups led by Associate Professor Antony Cooper (Neurogenomics) and Dr Daniel Hesselson (Neuroprotection) conduct innovative research in these areas using unique but complementary approaches.