April 23, 2025April marks Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, support those living with the disease, and highlight the importance of early detection and ongoing care.
At Northern Health, we stand with our community in recognising the impact of Parkinson’s disease and reaffirm our commitment to providing compassionate, multidisciplinary care to those affected.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects the control of body movements. It is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in Australia, affecting more than 220,000 Australians. While there is no known cure, early diagnosis and access to appropriate medical, allied health, and community support services can significantly improve quality of life.
At Northern Health, our care teams work closely with patients and their families to manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s through a collaborative, patient-centred approach. This may include support from neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, social workers and nursing staff – each playing a crucial role in helping individuals live well with Parkinson’s.
“One in five are diagnosed before the age of 50. Research suggests the number of people living this multifaceted disease is increasing. The disease affects the control of movement and various non-movement symptoms. No two people with Parkinson’s disease have the same symptoms. Common symptoms can include tremor when the limb is rested, slowness of movement, shuffling walking and mood changes,” says Dr Paul Kopanidis, Neurologist, Northern Health.
Parkinson’s disease is associated with an abnormal build-up of a protein in the brain called alpha-synuclein with accompanying loss of dopamine production. Medications are important in the management to improve symptoms and quality of life as they can supplement the loss of dopamine.
“Currently we do not have a disease modifying drug to stop the disease. However, exercise is a promising intervention to slow down the disease. It is therefore important to build a team of clinicians to treat Parkinson’s disease,” adds A/Prof Doug Crompton, Head of Neurology Unit, Northern Health.
We encourage everyone to learn more, show support, and get involved in raising awareness this April. Together, we can make a difference.
For more information on Parkinson’s disease, support, education and links to research programs, please visit Fight Parkinson
