A group of scientists from the University of Rochester and other institutions are warning that a common chemical used in cleaning and industry might be linked to Parkinson’s disease.
This chemical is called trichloroethylene, or TCE. It has been used for many years to clean metal parts in factories, remove caffeine from coffee, and dry clean clothes.
But now, more research is showing that TCE might play a dangerous role in harming brain health.
Parkinson’s disease is a serious brain disorder that slowly gets worse over time. People with this condition often have shaking hands, stiff muscles, slow movement, and problems with balance.
But it’s not just about movement—many also lose their sense of smell, struggle with sleep, have depression, and find it hard to speak or write clearly. Doctors still don’t know the exact cause, but they believe it comes from a mix of inherited traits and things people are exposed to in the environment.
TCE has been around for decades. In fact, signs that it might be connected to Parkinson’s disease were noticed as early as 1969. But only recently have studies shown just how risky it might be. People who are exposed to large amounts of TCE may have up to five times the risk of developing Parkinson’s compared to those who are not.
The danger of TCE isn’t limited to workplaces. This chemical can leak into the soil and water, and from there, it can enter the air in homes, schools, or offices—sometimes without anyone knowing. That’s what makes it so concerning. It’s invisible, and it can stay hidden in the environment for a long time.
Despite being widely used, there hasn’t been enough research to fully understand how TCE may cause damage in the brain. In the latest research, scientists looked at previous studies and closely examined seven people who had been exposed to TCE and later developed Parkinson’s. These cases give more support to the idea that TCE is a possible cause of the disease.
Because there is no cure for Parkinson’s, treatment focuses on reducing symptoms. Doctors often prescribe medicine to increase dopamine, a brain chemical that people with Parkinson’s don’t have enough of.
Physical therapy and regular exercise are also important because they help people stay mobile and improve quality of life. Other medications can help with sleep problems, depression, and other non-movement issues related to the disease.
Living a healthy life can also help manage Parkinson’s. This includes eating a balanced diet, staying active, avoiding stress, and steering clear of harmful substances like TCE. Support groups and counseling can offer emotional help and connection for both patients and their families.
With more evidence connecting TCE to Parkinson’s, it’s important for communities and governments to reduce the use of this chemical and keep it out of the environment. This means stronger rules for its use in workplaces and better ways to clean up places where it has already spread.
This important research, led by Dorsey Ray and his team, was published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. Their work helps shine a light on how chemicals in our environment might be increasing the number of Parkinson’s cases around the world. It also reminds us that protecting our health means looking closely at what we are exposed to every day.
If you care about Parkinson’s disease, please read studies about how to improve walking in people with Parkinson’s disease and Scientists find causes of Parkinson’s and Lewy body dementia.
If you care about Parkinson’s disease, please read studies These common drugs may increase risk of Parkinson’s disease and Researchers find an important cause of Parkinson’s disease.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
