Parkinson’s

Experts believe that a simple breath test could help doctors detect and diagnose Parkinson’s disease. The test looks for a unique signature of chemicals in exhaled breath. Small studies in volunteers have begun and early findings suggest the test can identify those with the debilitating brain condition. Larger trials are now planned to see if it could truly be a ... Read More »

Stem cells can be used to heal the damage in the brain caused by Parkinson’s disease, according to scientists in Sweden. They said their study on rats heralded a “huge breakthrough” towards developing effective treatments. There is no cure for the disease, but medication and brain stimulation can alleviate symptoms. Parkinson’s UK said there were many questions still to be ... Read More »

Depression and anxiety are twice as common in people newly-diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease compared with the general population, research suggests. Writing in the journal Neurology, US researchers say depression increases in frequency in Parkinson’s patients and is often left untreated. Previous research suggests that the disease’s impact on the brain can be a trigger for depression. Parkinson’s UK said depression ... Read More »

The Michael J Fox Foundation is attempting to use wearable sensors to monitor the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The charity has teamed up with Intel to equip patients with smartwatches made by the tech firm’s Basis division. The organisations carried out tests earlier in the year and now plan to release an app to help doctors study the effects of ... Read More »

A COUPLE from Hampshire will be on a bicycle made for two in aid of the charity which has supported them. Viv and Iain Mackay are taking on a 20-mile fundraising cycle on a tandem bike in a bid to raise money for Parkinson’s UK. The challenge comes after Viv, 65, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease four years ago and ... Read More »