Chronic exposure to pesticides can accelerate the progression of Parkinson’s disease, according to a recent UCLA study. The researchers found residential and workplace proximity to pesticide application to be associated with the progression of motor, cognitive, and depressive Parkinson’s symptoms. Studies like this one emphasize the importance of organic practices, which prohibit the use of these types of pesticides.  

Parkinson’s disease, a chronic neurodegenerative illness, is primarily caused by the decay of dopamine-producing neurons. Without sufficient dopamine exchange in the nervous system, Parkinson’s patients experience motor issues (tremors, pain, rigidity), cognitive decline, and depression. Symptoms progress over time, worsening quality of life and increasing susceptibility to other health risks. Past research has indicated a link between pesticide exposure and Parkinson’s diagnosis; however, this study examined the effect of chronic agrochemical exposure on the speed of the disease’s progression. 

Researchers examined Parkinson’s patients in Central California, an area characterized by heavy pesticide and herbicide use within the agricultural sector. Patients were screened by movement disorder specialists and scored on criteria in motor, cognitive, and depression symptoms.  

Using agricultural land use data, the researchers estimated long-term annual exposure to pesticides and herbicides. Exposure was measured by annual applied pounds of pesticide within 500 meters of patient residence or workplace from 1974 to the year of diagnosis. Researchers examined the relationship between exposure to 53 specific pesticides and the development of a multitude of Parkinson’s symptoms. Ten agricultural pesticides were found to be associated with faster Parkinson’s progression.  

It is well established that combinations of pesticides can be more toxic at lower exposure concentrations. This remains true for Parkinson’s disease, with combined agrichemicals use compounding progression risks at lower exposure concentrations for Parkinson’s patients. So, while pesticide exposure is a risk to those near the operations that use them, consumers who eat non-organic products may also face unnecessary exposure to toxins. To limit the impact these harsh chemicals have on human health and development, it’s important to choose products that are grown in their absence.