What! Life near this type of playground can Parkinson’s disease cause?

A new study has expressed serious concerns about a hidden health risk in some of the most scenic districts in the country, golf courses. According to Research, which was published in Jama Network Open, life within a mile after a golf course could increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease by astonishing 126%.The culprit behind this worrying connection? Pesticides.The 24-year study carried out by researchers from the Barrow Neurological Institute analyzed Parkinson’s disease cases in Olmsted County, Minnesota. By mapping patient addresses together with 139 golf courses in the region, the researchers found a clear trend: the closer someone lived a golf course, the higher their chances of being diagnosed with the illness.

However, the danger is not limited to the exposure of pesticides in the air. The study also showed that people who rely on the groundwater near golf courses for their tap water have a significantly higher risk. Residents in “in need of protected groundwater regions”, in which porous basic rock promotes rainwater in water sources, are almost twice as high as the risk of developing Parkinson’s.“This is not about golf,” said Dr. Michael Okun, National Medical Consultant of the Parkinson’s Foundation. “It’s about pesticides, environmental pollution and avoidable risks that hide in sight.”Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, language and perception. It currently affects over a million Americans and almost 12 million people worldwide, and the numbers are rising quickly. Like Dr. Okun emphasized: “Parkinson’s cases explode. Nevertheless, only 2 to 3 cents of each Parkinson’s dollar are issued for prevention. That has to change. “

Environmental impact on pesticides such as paraquat and Rotenon, which are usually used to maintain the flawless lawns of golf courses, it becomes an increasingly recognized risk factor for Parkinson’s. These chemicals have already been shown in animal studies in order to induce symptoms similar to the disease. Compared to European countries, golf courses in the United States will use up to 15 times more pesticides.The results of the study are particularly worrying because many people live near golf courses, which are often drawn by the calm atmosphere and the green surroundings. However, these “green” rooms can mask toxic dangers. While genetics play a role in Parkinson’s, growing evidence of environmental triggers such as exposure to pesticides indicate a significant contribution to the spread of the disease.Although the study does not indicate that people move away from golf courses, it underlines the urgent need for political changes. Experts recommend that cities and states implement stricter regulations for chemical use near residential areas and invest in better water treatment systems in endangered areas.Residents who live near golf courses are asked to contact the areas of environmental health agencies in order to learn more about transparency and groundwater safety measures for pesticide. Like Dr. Okun emphasized, should this research serve as a serious wake -up call: “Prevention must be part of the plan.”