Link Between Common Chemicals and Parkinson’s Disease Risk
Recent research indicates a rising risk of Parkinson’s disease in the United States, potentially tied to certain chemicals in the environment.
A study published in the Journal Neurology revealed a measurable increase in Parkinson’s cases linked to trichloroethylene (TCE), a chemical prevalent in the air, water, and soil across the country. TCE is often utilized for industrial cleaning and degreasing of metal components, as noted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
TCE falls under strict regulations due to its associations with various cancers, including liver and kidney cancer, as well as other health risks. It’s known for causing harm to several vital systems in the body, including the nervous and immune systems.
Interestingly, previous research highlighted that TCE can cross blood-brain barriers when inhaled or ingested, which may lead to neuron damage. The Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix recently analyzed data from nearly 222,000 elderly individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. They contrasted patients living near TCE-emitting facilities with those in cleaner areas.
Dr. Brittany Krzyzanowski, an Assistant Professor at Barrow, mentioned, “We have discovered some striking patterns of high risk for those near certain TCE-emitting facilities.” She noted that outdoor concentrations of TCE tend to be higher in some regions of the U.S., particularly the rust belt.
Dr. Krzyzanowski expressed a degree of surprise that neighborhood-level air pollution linked to TCE could affect overall health risks, although she acknowledged existing connections established in earlier studies.
In discussions around the study, Dr. Aaron Ellenbogen, a neurologist, pointed out that the connection between TCE and Parkinson’s is not new—cases have been documented since as early as 1969. While the current findings contribute to ongoing discussions, they don’t necessarily introduce breakthrough information.
The study primarily utilized observational data, and the researchers emphasize that they did not definitively prove that TCE exposure directly causes Parkinson’s. There’s a sense of complexity surrounding not only TCE, but also other neurotoxins and their potential interactions with genetic predispositions.
Experts like Dr. Gaishwartz, co-director at a Parkinson’s center in Long Island, reiterated the widespread presence of TCE in American life, from cleaning supplies to industrial applications. He warned that prolonged exposure may trigger biochemical processes resulting in neuron damage.
Yet, it’s worth noting that TCE isn’t the sole concern. Dr. Schwartz elaborated that exposure to a mix of neurotoxins could be a critical factor in disease development. He suggested that environmental factors, combined with genetics, paint a more nuanced picture of how these diseases may develop.
As for avoiding TCE exposure, it can be quite challenging. However, some suggestions include using medical-grade air purifiers, filtering water, and steering clear of plastic bottles.
Dr. Krzyzanowski encourages individuals to investigate potential chemical contamination in their communities and consider engaging with local environmental advocacy groups.
This research received support from the American Neurological Association and the Barrow Neuropa Foundation.
