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There are over 1,000 documented cases of Parkinson’s Disease in Barbados. While the condition mainly affects persons over the age of 70, people in their 50s have been known to develop the disease, which is referred to as Young Onset Parkinson’s.

The Barbados Parkinson’s Trust and Support Group will be looking to create awareness about Parkinson’s, starting tomorrow, Friday, April 1.

The disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects movement and worsens overtime. By the time symptoms appear, significant neurological damage may have occurred.  

Some of the warning signs include:

  • Postural instability
  • Deterioration in speech or handwriting
  • Numbness or stiffness in the body
  • Tremors in the body
  • Impaired or slow movement

If persons notice that they have any of the above symptoms, they should see a physician, preferably a neurologist, as soon as possible.  Early detection has the potential to improve the experience of living with the disease.

The Barbados Parkinson’s Trust and Support Group offers support to individuals with the disease.  For further information, persons may contact Cherry Vogt Ward at email bathsheba185@yahoo.com, or telephone number 230-7556.

melissa.rollock@barbados.gov.bb

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