Scientists from the University of Rochester and other research centers have found a strong link between a widely used industrial chemical and Parkinson’s disease. Their study suggests that exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE), a common solvent, may increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s by as much as 500%.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that affects movement. It happens when certain brain cells stop producing enough dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement.
People with Parkinson’s may experience shaking (tremors), stiff muscles, slow movement, and trouble with balance and coordination. Some also have trouble speaking, writing, or sleeping, and they may lose their sense of smell.
Doctors don’t fully understand what causes Parkinson’s, but they believe it results from a mix of genetics and environmental factors. Aging, family history, head injuries, and exposure to certain chemicals are all known risk factors.
What Is TCE?
TCE is a chemical that has been widely used for decades. It helps clean metal parts, removes caffeine from coffee, and has been used in dry cleaning. However, it has also been linked to health problems, including a possible connection to Parkinson’s.
Concerns about TCE and Parkinson’s disease go back to 1969, when some workers exposed to the chemical developed Parkinson’s-like symptoms. Since then, case studies have suggested that people who work with TCE regularly may have a higher chance of developing the disease.
The new study highlights a worrying fact: TCE is not only found in workplaces. It can also contaminate the air, water, and even homes. This means that people may be exposed to the chemical without realizing it. Despite these concerns, few large studies have been done to explore the link between TCE and Parkinson’s.
Investigating the Link
To better understand TCE’s role in Parkinson’s, researchers reviewed past studies and examined seven new case reports. They suggest that exposure to TCE may be contributing to the growing number of Parkinson’s cases worldwide.
If proven true, this means that reducing exposure to TCE could help prevent some cases of the disease. However, more research is needed to confirm the connection.
Reducing the Risk
Parkinson’s disease has no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms. Medications, physical therapy, and a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a good diet, can improve quality of life. Support groups and counseling are also important for patients and their families.
If TCE is indeed a cause of Parkinson’s, reducing exposure to this chemical should be a priority. Better environmental and workplace safety measures could help protect people from unnecessary risk.
Moving Forward
The study, led by Dr. Dorsey Ray and published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease, adds to growing evidence that environmental factors play a major role in Parkinson’s. It also raises awareness about the hidden dangers of chemicals like TCE.
As scientists continue to study Parkinson’s and its causes, it’s important to consider both medical treatments and ways to reduce exposure to harmful substances. Understanding and preventing environmental risks could be a key step in tackling this disease.
If you care about Parkinson’s disease, please read studies that Vitamin B may slow down cognitive decline, and Mediterranean diet could help lower risk of Parkinson’s.
For more information about brain health, please see recent studies that blueberry supplements may prevent cognitive decline, and results showing Plant-based diets could protect cognitive health from air pollution.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
