Parkinson’s disease affects around seven to 10 million people worldwide. The distribution of the disease is relatively homogeneous. Parkinson’s disease normally begins when patients are between the ages of 50 and 70, but it can occur at any age. It is the second most common cause of physical disability in the elderly, followed by strokes. It is not known why, but Parkinson’s disease affects slightly more men than women.
PARKINSON’S DISEASE ON A GLOBAL LEVEL
Parkinson’s disease presents a public health challenge, as its incidence has increased over time due to the ageing population. Along with other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, it is expected to overtake cancer as the second most common cause of death by the year 2040.
The combined direct and indirect cost of Parkinson’s, including treatment, social security payments and lost income from inability to work, is estimated to be nearly $25 billion per year in the United States alone. The incidence and prevalence of the disease increase with age, arising in approximately 1% of people over the age of 65.
For further information:
http://parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Causes-and-Statistics/Statistics
Last updated: 9/28/17
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