Parkinson’s disease (PD) is often thought of as a disease that only impacts movement, but Parkinson’s affects many systems in the body. Parkinson’s symptoms are different from person to person and usually develop slowly over time.
Research findings are varied as to whether Black and African Americans with PD experience a different rate of progression or symptom trends compared to other racial and ethnic groups. More participation by communities of color in research studies will help us better understand how PD — and treatments — specifically impact Black communities and people with PD.
Many people simply dismiss Parkinson’s symptoms as part of aging. Parkinson’s disease symptoms are incredibly varied and impact movement and non-movement functions, such as changes in thinking and sleep.
