Scientists from the University of Rochester and other research centers have found more evidence that a chemical called trichloroethylene, or TCE, may be linked to Parkinson’s disease.
TCE is a chemical often used in factories and cleaning processes, and it may be contributing to the rising number of Parkinson’s cases around the world.
Parkinson’s disease is a brain condition that affects how people move. It happens when special brain cells that make dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement, become damaged or die.
When this happens, people may begin to notice shaking hands, stiff muscles, and slower movements. It can also cause balance problems, changes in how people speak, trouble sleeping, mood issues like depression, and even a loss of smell.
Doctors still don’t know exactly what causes Parkinson’s, but they believe it happens because of both genes and environmental triggers. Some things that increase the risk include getting older, having family members with the disease, head injuries, and being exposed to certain chemicals.
One chemical that scientists are now focusing on is TCE. This chemical has been used for many years in cleaning metal parts, dry cleaning clothes, and even removing caffeine from coffee.
Back in 1969, researchers first suggested it might be linked to Parkinson’s. Now, new research shows that people exposed to TCE have a much higher risk—about 500% more—of developing Parkinson’s than people who aren’t exposed.
The danger is that people may not even realize they are coming into contact with TCE. It can pollute the air, soil, and water, and then enter homes, schools, and workplaces through the air without being noticed. This makes it especially dangerous because people can be exposed without knowing it.
To learn more, the researchers reviewed older studies and looked at seven cases of people who developed Parkinson’s after being exposed to TCE. Based on what they found, the scientists believe this chemical may be a preventable cause of Parkinson’s disease.
There is no cure for Parkinson’s yet, but there are ways to manage the symptoms and help people live better lives. Medicines can help the brain make more dopamine or control other symptoms.
Physical therapy, walking, stretching, and balance exercises can help with movement. Eating well, staying active, and getting emotional support from counseling or support groups can also help.
Because TCE may be part of the problem, experts say it’s time to take action. Better safety rules and stronger environmental protections can help reduce how much of this chemical people are exposed to. This would not only help people now but also protect future generations.
The study, led by Dorsey Ray and others, was published in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. It calls attention to how pollution and harmful chemicals may play a big role in brain health—and shows why we need to learn more and take steps to keep our environment safe.
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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