A free virtual symposium about U.S. veterans, their families, and Parkinson’s disease (PD) is on tap for Saturday, March 20.
Those interested in taking part must register at www.parkinson.org/sevets or
by calling 770-450-0792.
The symposium’s goal is to make veterans with Parkinson’s
and their loved ones better aware of the latest in therapeutic advances, as
well as of resources available through the VA and the foundation. Healthcare
professionals and the broader Parkinson’s community are also welcome to attend.
“We understand that most people with Parkinson’s develop
symptoms at 50 years of age and older. As the population ages, so will the
number of Americans living with Parkinson’s, including veterans,” said John L.
Lehr, president and CEO of the Parkinson’s Foundation, in a press
release.
“Serving those who have served our country is a priority of
the Parkinson’s Foundation and we’re honored to partner with the VA to provide
this online program to help veterans live better with Parkinson’s disease.”
Of the estimated 1 million people with Parkinson’s in the
U.S., some 110,000 are veterans. Of those, about half are
at least 65. While what specifically causes Parkinson’s is unknown,
scientists think a mix of genetic and environmental factors are likely
culprits. Some research also suggests that a Parkinson’s diagnosis is
associated with Agent Orange or other herbicide exposure from a veteran’s years
of service, particularly during
the years 1962 to 1975.
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