A new study shows, chemicals in stain removers and paint are linked to Parkinson's disease

A recent study suggests that exposure to a chemical commonly found in industrial and consumer products could raise the likelihood of developing Parkinson's disease.

According to U.S. researchers, there is a connection between the risk of developing Parkinson's disease and trichloroethylene (TCE), a chemical commonly used to degrease metal and found in various products such as wood finishes, adhesives, paint, and stain removers.

A study published in the medical journal JAMA Neurology on May 15 reveals that individuals who were exposed to trichloroethylene (TCE) through water sources had a 70 percent increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's disease is classified as a movement disorder and is characterized by symptoms such as slowed movement, speech difficulties, muscle rigidity, and impaired balance. While there is currently no known cure for Parkinson's, various treatments and therapies are available to help manage the symptoms associated with the condition.

For the study, a cohort of 340,489 military personnel in the United States who were stationed for a minimum of three months between 1975 and 1985 was examined. Out of the total cohort, health data was accessible for just under half of the individuals, specifically 158,122 participants.

During the follow-up period from January 1997 to February 2021, the researchers assessed the correlation between the specific military stations where individuals were stationed and the occurrence of Parkinson's disease. This analysis helped determine whether there was a link between the location of military service and the development of the neurological condition.

According to the findings of the study, out of the total number of veterans included, 430 individuals were diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Among these cases, 279 veterans were stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, while 151 veterans were from Camp Pendleton in California.

Dr. Robert Chen, a professor of medicine at the University of Toronto, explained during an interview on CTV's Your Morning that military personnel, like those involved in the study, have a higher likelihood of being exposed to trichloroethylene (TCE) compared to the average person.

According to Dr. Robert Chen, it is crucial to conduct more research to gain a comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with trichloroethylene (TCE) exposure. While most individuals are exposed to lower levels, he emphasized the need to explore the potential risks of other chemicals as well.

Chen says, the development of Parkinson's disease is influenced not only by environmental toxins but also by genetic factors.

He added the chemical is not commonly used in public life, it is mostly used in industrial sectors.

There is no need for panic  based on the study's results. He highlighted that the percentage of individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease among those exposed to the chemical was less than 1 percent.

According to Chen, this research holds promise in deepening our understanding of the role of environmental factors in Parkinson's disease. He emphasized the need to explore how environmental factors interact with genetic factors and other variables like head trauma to potentially increase the risk of the disease. By investigating these relationships, new insights can be gained to advance our knowledge of Parkinson's disease and its complex origins.