The ministry\u2019s director for vulnerable group health services, Imran\nPambudi, said Monday that the degenerative disease, first identified by\nDr.\u00a0James Parkinson in 1817, remains a major global health challenge,\naffecting more than 10 million people worldwide.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn Indonesia, the number of patients is estimated at more than 1.1\nmillion in 2026, with around 80,000 new cases each year,\u201d Pambudi\nsaid.<\/p>\n
He noted the figures reflect an aging population and a rising burden\nof degenerative diseases.<\/p>\n
Public figures such as Muhammad Ali, Michael J. Fox, and Neil Diamond\nhighlight that Parkinson\u2019s can affect anyone regardless of status.<\/p>\n
Symptoms include tremors, slowed movement, muscle stiffness, and\nimpaired balance, he said.<\/p>\n
The disease can also trigger depression, cognitive decline, and\ncomplications such as pneumonia that may worsen patients\u2019\nconditions.<\/p>\n
Although the exact cause remains unclear, risk factors include\ngenetics, environmental exposure, and head trauma. Preventive measures\ninclude regular exercise, antioxidant-rich diets, adequate rest, and\nstress management.<\/p>\n
\u201cSunlight exposure to maintain vitamin D levels may also support\nbrain health,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
Related news: Stem cell hope for Parkinson`s patients<\/p>\n
Current treatments focus on symptom management. Levodopa remains the\nprimary therapy to increase dopamine levels, while rehabilitation helps\npatients maintain mobility and communication skills.<\/p>\n
Deep brain stimulation is used to address motor symptoms, while\ncomplementary therapies such as yoga and meditation are increasingly\nadopted under medical supervision to improve quality of life.<\/p>\n
\u201cFamily support is crucial and irreplaceable,\u201d Pambudi said, noting\nfamilies play a key role in providing emotional care and ensuring\nadherence to treatment.<\/p>\n
The government has issued guidelines on Parkinson\u2019s management and is\nworking to expand access to care. Community groups such as Bali\nParkinson Warriors (BAPARWA) also help raise awareness and support\npatients.<\/p>\n
Despite progress, he said, more funding and investment in research\nare needed.<\/p>\n
The commemoration serves as a reminder to strengthen the health\nsystem, improve access through national insurance, and raise public\nawareness of the disease.<\/p>\n
Related news: New treatment for Parkinson\u2019s disease developed at\nNTHU<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/indonesia-marks-parkinsons-day-with-call-for-action-1776077579", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }