Defining Parkinson's
	St. John's Regional Chapter Newfoundland and Labrador
	The Parkinson's Foundation of Canada

---

What is Parkinson's?

---

The terms, Parkinson's disease, Parkinson's syndrome, Parkinsonism and Parkinson's, are often used interchangeably for the chronic neuro-degenerative condition with features of tremor, slow movements and stiffness of muscles. Parkinson's is more common over the age of 55, but it can occur in younger people. The frequency of Parkinson's increases in older people.

Today, in Canada, there are about 100,000 people suffering with Parkinson's. In Newfoundland and Labrador, more than 1200 men and women have been diagnosed with Parkinson's. Men and women are equally affected and more than half of them are diagnosed before retirement age.

---

The Cause

---

An area of the brain called the substantia nigra contains cells which produce a chemical called dopamine. With the death of these cells, and the resultant deficiency of dopamine, there is an interference in the transmission of messages between the nerve cells which makes initiating movement difficult.

Parkinson's is not thought to be inherited but there are cases where it affects more than one family member. Research studies are being carried out to find out what might cause this to occur.

There is one thing that we are certain about - it is not contagious!

---

The Symptoms

---

• Tremor of the limbs when at rest
• Muscular rigidity
• Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
• Difficulty with balance and walking
• Fatigue
• Reduced volume and clarity of speech
• Difficulty with fine movements (e.g. handwriting)

---

Return To Home Page If you have questions or comments contact Anne Rutherford at rutherford@nf.sympatico.ca Website maintained by Janet Paterson Last updated on 28 June 2000

---