Chennai: ‘Multi-disciplinary’ care was the main area of focus for creating awareness in the state on Monday, World Parkinson’s Disease Day. Though awareness created on Parkinson’s disease (PD) is considered very high in the State, doctors say knowledge on importance of ‘multi-disciplinary’ care is very low.
“A person with PD cannot receive treatment from a neurologist alone. He would also require to see a physiotherapist and a counsellor,” said founder of Neurokrish TRIMED, E.S. Krishnamoorthy, adding, “While the frequency of the condition is not very high, it causes progressive disability and has high co-morbidity (co-occurring conditions).”
Tamil Nadu is known to have high prevalence rates of PD – 1 in 1,000 – according to recent studies. “However, over 60 per cent of the population of the state is already aware of the disease,” said a senior health official.
PD, which is a movement disorder related to dopamine insufficiency in brain, is recognised as one of the most common neurological disorders. It is known to affect seven to 10 million people worldwide. According to recent studies, it was found that in India, the incidence is bound to double in 10 years.
“Though PD is ideally a disease of the old, youngsters can also develop it. However, it is essential that youngsters are made aware of the fact that the symptoms of the disease differ for youngsters as compared to the elderly,” said Sathish Kumar, Consultant Neurologist and Stroke Specialist, Fortis Malar Hospital.
“Young Onset PD is like diabetes. It can be controlled with medicines for approximately 10 years. Such persons can carry on with their normal life without anyone ever learning about their condition,” said neurologist Krishnan.
“As the disease is of the ageing, it is essential to take it more seriously,” said neurologist Krishnamoorthy, adding, “With a population of around 125 million elders in the country, the disease is seen to be on the rise.”
Some of the early symptoms of the disease include inability to discriminate between odors. Thirty per cent of those who have developed the disease, tend to have problems with their memory.
