Scientists from the University of Rochester and other institutions have found new evidence that a common industrial chemical, trichloroethylene (TCE), may be linked to Parkinson’s disease.
This chemical, widely used in industries and found in the environment, could be playing a role in the increasing number of Parkinson’s cases worldwide.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that affects movement. It happens when nerve cells that produce dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement, become damaged or die. This leads to symptoms such as:
- Tremors (shaking hands or other body parts)
- Stiffness in muscles
- Slowed movement (difficulty walking or standing up)
- Balance problems
Other symptoms can include speech changes, loss of smell, sleep issues, and mood disorders like depression.
The exact cause of Parkinson’s is not fully understood, but scientists believe it results from a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Known risk factors include:
- Age – The risk increases as people get older.
- Family history – Having relatives with Parkinson’s raises the risk.
- Exposure to toxins – Chemicals such as pesticides and industrial solvents may contribute.
- Head injuries – Past injuries to the head may be linked to Parkinson’s.
How TCE Might Contribute to Parkinson’s Disease
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a chemical used in cleaning metal parts, dry cleaning clothes, and even decaffeinating coffee. It has been used for decades in industries, and scientists first linked it to Parkinson’s as early as 1969.
Recent research found that people exposed to TCE have a 500% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s diseasecompared to those who are not exposed.
The danger of TCE is not just in workplaces. It can also pollute air, soil, and water, exposing people without them even knowing. This chemical can evaporate into the air from contaminated groundwater and enter homes, schools, and workplaces undetected.
What Scientists Discovered
To better understand the connection between TCE and Parkinson’s, researchers reviewed existing studies and examined seven cases of people with Parkinson’s who had been exposed to TCE. They believe this chemical may be contributing to the global rise of Parkinson’s disease and should be considered a preventable cause of the illness.
However, more research is needed to fully understand how TCE affects the brain and how to reduce its impact.
Managing Parkinson’s Disease and Reducing TCE Exposure
There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Common treatments include:
- Medications – Drugs like levodopa help increase dopamine in the brain, while others assist with non-movement symptoms.
- Physical therapy and exercise – Activities such as walking, stretching, and balance exercises can help maintain movement.
- Lifestyle changes – Eating a healthy diet, managing stress, and staying active can improve overall well-being.
- Support groups and counseling – Emotional and mental support can be beneficial for both patients and caregivers.
Because TCE exposure may be preventable, it is important to push for better environmental regulations and workplace safety measures to limit its spread.
This study, conducted by Dorsey Ray et al., was published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. It highlights the growing concern about environmental factors in Parkinson’s and the urgent need for further research to protect public health.
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.
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