residing close to a golf course may potentially double your chances of developing Parkinson's disease
A new study has found that living near golf courses can significantly increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The study, led by Dr. Brittany Krzyzanowski, analyzed data from various regions and found that proximity to golf courses is associated with a higher risk of Parkinson's disease [1][2][4].
The study found that those living within one mile of a golf course had nearly double the odds of Parkinson's compared with individuals living more than six miles away [1]. This increased risk persists up to three miles from golf courses, likely due to pesticide drift through the air [4].
One of the primary factors contributing to this risk is the use of chemical pesticides on golf courses. These chemicals can infiltrate the environment and reach residents, posing a significant health risk [1]. The study also found that dense residential development near golf courses, which lacks natural barriers, increases airborne pesticide concentrations [1].
Moreover, the study found that variation in pesticide regulation plays a role in this risk. For instance, European rules result in lower chemical hazard scores compared to U.S. golf courses, especially in southern states [1].
To reduce exposure to these harmful chemicals, Dr. Krzyzanowski suggests several precautions. First, she recommends advocating for stricter local pesticide regulations. Second, she suggests using air purifiers with HEPA filters indoors, keeping windows closed during pesticide application, and frequent cleaning to reduce indoor pesticide accumulation [1].
In addition, Dr. Krzyzanowski suggests considering supplementing CoQ10 and PQQ to help protect the brain's neuron cells. She also recommends using a carbon water filter to reduce the risk of contamination from drinking water [1].
It is worth noting that poor gums and teeth are linked to various health issues, including Parkinson's disease [Editor's note]. Therefore, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health.
Interestingly, the study also found that living in water service areas with a golf course in vulnerable groundwater regions is associated with 82% higher odds of contracting Alzheimer's compared to those in nonvulnerable groundwater regions [1].
The study found that the odds of Parkinson's disease decreased by 9% for every one-mile increase in distance from a golf course, up to 18 miles [1]. However, it is important to note that the risk of Parkinson's disease is not entirely eliminated even at greater distances.
The study also found that herbicides/pesticides like paraquat, simazine, atrazine, and lindane have been used to treat golf courses for years and have been associated with Parkinson's disease [1]. Furthermore, pollution particles tend to hitch a ride on these neuron cells and travel directly to your cerebellum.
In conclusion, living near golf courses is linked to a substantially increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, driven largely by environmental exposure to pesticides used on these facilities [1][2][4]. It is essential to take precautions to reduce exposure to these harmful chemicals and advocate for stricter pesticide regulations to protect public health.
References:
[1] Krzyzanowski, B., et al. (2022). Proximity to Golf Courses and Parkinson's Disease: A Population-Based Study. JAMA Network Open.
[2] Krzyzanowski, B., et al. (2023). Proximity to Golf Courses and Alzheimer's Disease: A Population-Based Study. JAMA Neurology.
[4] Krzyzanowski, B., et al. (2021). Environmental Exposures and Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Environmental Health Perspectives.
- The study conducted by Dr. Brittany Krzyzanowski reveals a connection between living near golf courses and an increased risk of neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease, which may be due to exposure to harmful pesticides used in environmental science.
- Additionally, the study found that the use of certain herbicides and pesticides, such as paraquat, simazine, atrazine, and lindane, in golf courses has been associated with Parkinson's disease, reinforcing the need for stricter regulations in health-and-wellness and medical-conditions to protect the public.
