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People living in rural areas are at higher risk of developing Parkinson’s Disease due to exposure to chemicals used in agricultural and horticultural sprays, according to research charity Cure Parkinson’s.
They say it’s not just farmers, orchardists, vineyard workers and gardeners actually using the chemicals who are vulnerable, but anyone living near where weedkillers and insecticides are sprayed.
Products containing paraquat, heptachlor and rotenone are among the worst offenders, with studies showing they can increase the risk of Parkinson’s by 200 to 600 per cent, depending on exposure levels. Now banned in many countries, products containing paraquat are still available in NZ, although they are restricted, while rotenone remains a common garden pesticide – better known as Derris dust or spray.
Cure Parkinson’s community engagement lead Lizzie Drum says people should be wary around any industrial chemicals, as inhaled pollutants may cause inflammation, cognitive issues and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s.
“It’s very much a disease of our industrial era. There is little doubt that Parkinson’s is caused, at least in part, if not to a large extent, by exposure to environmental pollutants,” she says.
“People should follow precautions when using any industrial chemicals, as many associations are proposed but remain unproven. Protecting your nose is crucial for brain health, because it serves as the main entry point for air and inhaled substances, including pollutants and pathogens, which can directly reach the brain.”
Parkinson’s Disease is the fastest-growing neurological condition globally, impacting over 13,000 New Zealanders and costing the country $600 million annually. It is now the second most common progressive neurological disorder after Alzheimer’s.
Online invitation
Cure Parkinson’s and the Dairy Women’s Network will host a live webinar to discuss the issue on Wednesday September 24, between midday and 1pm. The charity’s chief executive, Dr Daniel McGowan, will look at the connection between long-term exposure to agricultural and horticultural chemicals and the increased risk of developing Parkinson’s. He will also outline early warning signs of the disease such as tremors, loss of smell or changes in coordination, and look at practical steps anyone who uses herbicides and pesticides can take, such as wearing protective clothing or sourcing alternative products.
Anyone is welcome to join the webinar. To register, visit www.cureparkinsonsnz.org.nz
