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Hauenstein Parkinson's Center

Parkinson’s Disease Facts

• Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic, degenerative neurological disorder that affects both voluntary and involuntary movement. Tremor, rigidity and freezing in place, pain, muscle cramps, swallowing difficulty, balance problems and dementia are only some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s which can cause severe debilitation. There is no cure at present; however, various treatment options can offer Parkinson’s patients temporary relief from symptoms.
• Parkinson’s disease is second only to Alzheimer’s as a degenerative neurological disorder. In the United States, Parkinson’s disease affects more people than the total of those suffering multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy and Lou Gherigs’ disease (ALS).
• Over 1.5 million people in the United States suffer from Parkinson’s disease. A new case of Parkinson’s disease is diagnosed in this country EVERY NINE MINUTES. In many cases, people life for years with worsening symptoms before the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is made. The average age of a person diagnosed with PD is 58; however, it also strikes people in their 20’s, 30’s and 40’s who struggle to work and raise a family while dealing with this disorder. About 50,000 people in Michigan have Parkinson’s disease. Almost thirty percent (15,000) are under the age of 60. As our population continues to age, more people will be stricken.
• Parkinson’s disease has been called a family disorder because caregivers are crucial for the well being of the Parkinson’s patient. Families who need to provide financial, emotional, and physical support carry a tremendous burden. Respite care and medication costs are critical concerns.
• Medications to treat Parkinson’s disease can cost a patient between $1,000 and $7,000 per year.
• In the United States, Parkinson’s disease costs about $25 billion each year, paid for by people with Parkinson’s, their families, health insurers, disability insurers, SSI, SSDI, Medicaid and Medicare. Michigan’s share of those costs is more than $1.25 billion. (Yr. 1999-2000).

Source: National Parkinson’s Alliance