The estimated economic burden of Parkinson’s Disease—on individuals, families, and the U.S. government—exceeded $82 billion in 2024.³ Of this, approximately $25 billion is spent on direct healthcare costs, while the remaining $57 billion reflects non-healthcare costs, including lost wages from early retirement, disability, and caregiving expenses.³

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss or weakening of neurons in the brain. Although multiple brain regions can be affected, the primary area impacted is the region that produces dopamine. Reduced dopamine production leads to movement disorders, which may present as tremors, stiffness, difficulty speaking, trouble walking, or balance issues.⁴ Additional symptoms can include insomnia, constipation, or urinary problems. Cognitive changes may develop years after diagnosis, with some individuals progressing to Parkinson’s Dementia.

Before motor symptoms appear, some individuals may experience depression or anxiety, likely linked to alterations in dopamine levels.⁴ The Michael J. Fox Foundation is currently conducting research on the sense of smell in relation to neurodegenerative diseases, investigating why some individuals with Parkinson’s notice a decline in olfactory function years before diagnosis.⁵

Cause and Risk Factors of Parkinson’s Disease:

While the exact cause of Parkinson’s Disease is unknown, several factors are known to increase an individual’s risk of developing the condition.⁶

Age is the strongest risk factor for Parkinson’s Disease.⁷ In the U.S., the average age of diagnosis occurs in the sixth decade of life.⁴ Although most diagnoses occur later in life, some individuals are diagnosed much earlier, even in their 20s—most famously Michael J. Fox, who was diagnosed at age 29.⁶ Parkinson’s is also more common in men than women, with men being 1.5 times more likely to develop the disease.^1,4

Genetics play a role in approximately 10% of Parkinson’s cases.⁷ Just twenty years ago, hereditary factors were not thought to contribute to disease development. Since then, researchers have identified several genes definitively linked to Parkinson’s, and ongoing research aims to better identify individuals at increased risk.^4,7 Insights from genetic studies may also lead to improved treatments.^4,7

Environmental exposures have also been associated with Parkinson’s Disease. Occupational contact with metals and certain chemicals has been linked to increased risk,⁸ and strong associations have been observed between Parkinson’s and exposure to specific pesticides and herbicides.^1,8 Additionally, certain regions of the U.S., particularly former industrial centers in the “Rust Belt,” show higher disease incidence, suggesting that environmental toxins may play a significant role in disease development. ^1,8-9

Researchers believe that the risk of developing Parkinson’s Disease is influenced by multiple factors and emphasize the importance of continued research into how key genetic markers interact with environmental exposures.^1,8-9

Parkinson’s Disease in Michigan

Studies of Parkinson’s disease in the U.S. show that prevalence and incidence are not uniform across the country. Large epidemiological analyses indicate that, in addition to age and sex differences, PD rates vary geographically, with higher incidence and prevalence observed in certain regions, notably the Midwest and parts of the Northeast, areas historically associated with heavy industry and agriculture often described as the “Rust Belt”^1,2,9 Recent studies and CDC data have shown that states in the Midwest and Great Lakes region, including Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and parts of Pennsylvania and Minnesota, have elevated Parkinson’s disease rates compared to the national average.^10-13 This is thought to be from agricultural pesticides, industrial and environmental toxins, aging population, and better diagnosis and awareness.

This has led some researchers and health advocates to refer to this region informally as a “Parkinson’s Belt.”^10-13

Michigan’s Parkinson’s population relative to national figures:

• Approximately 35,000 people in Michigan are estimated to be living with Parkinson’s disease ¹⁴, compared with an estimated 1.5 million people across the U.S.^1,2,15
• This suggests that Michigan accounts for a small proportion of the total U.S. P.D. population, consistent with its share of the national population. However, like other states in the Midwest, Michigan may experience elevated P.D. burden due in part to demographic and environmental factors that have been linked with higher regional incidence.^1,2

Mortality and age-adjusted death rates:

• National data indicate that Parkinson’s disease–related mortality is tracked by age-adjusted death rates, which vary by state and are influenced by differences in age distribution and other demographic characteristics.^1,2
• Local reporting shows that more than 1,300 Michigan residents died from Parkinson’s disease in 2022, with a crude death rate of approximately 10.1 deaths per 100,000 people.^1,2
• While state-by-state comparisons require careful age adjustment, this rate is generally in line with Parkinson’s disease mortality patterns seen across the U.S., where age and sex differences strongly influence outcomes.^1,2

More information can be found at the Michigan Parkinson Foundation: https://parkinsonsmi.org/about-us/

Public Health and Policy Strategies

The rise in Parkinson’s Disease prevalence, has led many researchers and specialists in the neurodegenerative medical community to stress the importance of identifying modifiable risk factors in hopes of decreasing possible future cases.¹⁶

The World Health Organization has advocated for limiting the use of trichlorethylene (TCE), pesticides, and decreasing air pollution to modify Parkinson’s risks ¹⁶.  These measures would require policy changes at the state and federal level. Economic impact of such change has been identified as a barrier to effect change.¹⁶ 

Some may argue that all pesticides should be banned; however, the agricultural community relies on pesticides to improve crop yields and help feed billions of people worldwide.¹⁶   Completely banning all pesticides would risk the livelihoods of farmers as well as risk food insecurity.¹⁶  Advocates argue more research is needed to identify safer pesticides and to also develop more disease and pest resistant crop varieties. There is also a push to utilize newer weed control measures such as lasers, or drone technology in order to limit chemical use in agriculture.¹⁶ Implementing these changes in agricultural policy could help limit reliance on pesticides and, in turn, reduce human exposure.¹⁶

Educating the public about possible pesticide exposure risk, and proper handling and disposal of such chemicals has also been advocated for.¹⁶ Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) should also be offered and required to help limit occupational exposure.¹⁶ 

Air pollution is suspected to be an environmental risk and may lead to the development of Parkinson’s, however, there is no “acceptable” ambient air quality standard.  Moreover, not every country has policy or regulation on air quality or air pollution levels, and those that do, have higher acceptable levels of pollution than are recommended by the World Health Organization.¹⁶ 

Recently, there was a Parkinson’s Policy Forum in Washington D.C. where advocates, those living with Parkinson’s, their caregivers, researchers and leaders in the field met with legislators to advocate for:³

• Increased funding for Parkinson’s research at the National Institutes for Health
• Address the environmental risks that are linked to the disease
• Co-Sponsor and support the “Healthy Brains Act” ^3,17
• Fully Implement the National Parkinson’s Project” a federal initiative aimed at better treatment, diagnosis for Parkinson’s along with identifying a cure for the disease ^3,18

Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Parkinson’s Awareness Month, observed every April, is dedicated to highlighting a disease that affects over a million people here in the U.S.  This year, the theme is “Finding Real Answers.”¹⁹  The aim of this year’s campaign is aimed at educating the public about the disease, connecting people with science-based information about P.D., while also amplifying the lived experience of those with the disease.

On Tuesday, April 7, PD organizations throughout the US will join a National Day of Action to raise awareness of policy changes that can improve care and research for the disease. April 11 is World Parkinson’s Day; a day to recognize the 10 million people living with the disease throughout the world.¹⁹

Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation has events throughout the state during the month of April aimed at raising awareness, and support for those with the disease and their families.²⁰  Click here to see all the activities that are available in Michigan.

How You Can Get Involved

Public awareness and community engagement are essential for advancing research, education, and support for people living with Parkinson’s disease and their families. Individuals, families, professionals, and organizations can take meaningful action, particularly during Parkinson’s Awareness Month

• Attend webinars or support groups to increase awareness of Parkinson’s disease.
• Contact your representatives to advocate for funding for Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative disease research.
• Encourage support for the Healthy Brains Act and the full implementation of the National Parkinson’s Project.
• Participate in Parkinson’s fundraising walks or other community events.

Key April 2026 Events

• Hope in Every Step Symposiums (Traverse City/Livonia): Michigan Parkinson Foundation hosts sessions featuring Dr. Ray Dorsey, research updates, exercise demos, and expert panels.
• Live Big & Loud Tulip Trot (Apr 11): 5K Fun Run and 2K Walk in Fort Gratiot, St. Clair, to raise awareness and support for Parkinson’s.
• Gibby’s Day at Comerica Park (Apr 23): Annual event hosted by the Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson’s to raise awareness. 

Ongoing Michigan Parkinson’s Activities

• Exercise Classes: Rock Steady Boxing (high-intensity), Yoga for PD, and PWR! Moves are available, according to the Michigan Parkinson Foundation.
• Support Groups: South Oakland County Parkinson’s Support Group offers regular meetings for patients and care partners.
• Educational Opportunities: Parkinson’s Foundation offers webinars and local seminars on disease management. 

Scientific & Wellness Events

• 2026 Grand Challenges in Parkinson’s Disease (Grand Rapids): Van Andel Institute event focusing on disease mechanisms and patient care, including a Rallying to the Challenge meeting.
• Parkinson’s Revolution (Grand Rapids – Feb): Parkinson’s Foundation indoor cycling event to raise funds. 

It is recommended to check the Michigan Parkinson Foundation:

https://parkinsonsmi.org/ ²¹

Summary

Parkinson’s Disease affects over a million Americans and their families, leaving many to face profound physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Parkinson’s Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing need for research and funding to better understand the disease and identify modifiable risk factors that could help prevent or slow its progression.

References:

1. Parkinson’s Foundation. (n.d.). Statistics: Key numbers about Parkinson’s disease. Retrieved March 23, 2026, from https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/statistics
2. Marras, C., Beck, J. C., Bower, J. H., et al. (2018). Prevalence of Parkinson’s disease across North America. npj Parkinson’s Disease, 4, 21. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41531-018-0058-0
3. The Lewin Group. (2026, February 17). Economic burden of Parkinson’s and atypical Parkinsonism in the United States. Prepared for the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Retrieved March 26, 2026, from https://www.michaeljfox.org/sites/default/files/media/document/Economic%20Burden%20of%20Parkinson%E2%80%99s%20and%20Atypical%20Parkinsonism%20in%20the%20United%20States_0.pdf
4. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.). Parkinson’s disease. Retrieved March 23, 2026, from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/parkinsons-disease
5. The Michael J. Fox Foundation. (n.d.). Smell loss and brain health: Request your smell test. Retrieved March 24, 2026, from https://www.michaeljfox.org/smell-loss-brain-health-request-your-smell-test
6. The Michael J. Fox Foundation. (n.d.). About Parkinson’s: Causes. Retrieved March 24, 2026, from https://www.michaeljfox.org/causes
7. The Michael J. Fox Foundation. (n.d.). Parkinson’s genetics. Retrieved March 24, 2026, from https://www.michaeljfox.org/news/parkinsons-genetics
8. Parkinson’s Foundation. (n.d.). Environmental factors. Retrieved March 24, 2026, from https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/causes/environmental-factors
9. Willis, A. W., Roberts, E., Beck, J. C., et al. (2022). Incidence of Parkinson disease in North America. npj Parkinson’s Disease, 8, 170. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41531-022-00410-y
10. Han, E. (n.d.). The “Parkinson’s Belt”: Why the Midwest faces a higher risk. Woodside Internal Medicine. Retrieved March 28, 2026, from https://www.woodsidemd.com/post/the-parkinson-s-belt-why-the-midwest-faces-a-higher-risk
11. Parkinson’s Awareness Association of Central Indiana. (2024, September 19). Scientists studying ‘Parkinson’s Belt’ believe disease is linked to chemicals. Retrieved March 28, 2026, from https://www.paaci.org/research/scientists-studying-parkinsons-belt-believe-disease-is-linked-to-chemicals/
12. Parkinson’s Foundation. (2022, December 15). New study shows the incidence of Parkinson’s disease in the U.S. is 50% higher than previous estimates. Retrieved March 28, 2026, from https://www.parkinson.org/about-us/news/incidence-2022
13. Willis, A. W., Evanoff, B. A., Lian, M., Criswell, S. R., & Racette, B. A. (2010). Geographic and ethnic variation in Parkinson disease: A population-based study of U.S. Medicare beneficiaries. Neuroepidemiology, 34(3), 143–151. https://doi.org/10.1159/000275491
14. Michigan Parkinson Foundation. (n.d.). What is Parkinson’s? Understanding together. Retrieved March 25, 2026, from https://parkinsonsmi.org/know/#whatispd
15. National Center for Health Statistics. (2025). Stats of the states: Parkinson’s disease deaths—Michigan. Retrieved March 28, 2026, from https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/state-stats/deaths/parkinsons-disease.html