Reducing disparities in care, research for women with Parkinson’s disease
For Women's History Month, a columnist explores the gaps
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Women’s History Month, celebrated each March, originated in 1978 when an educational task force in Santa Rosa, California, set out to highlight women’s contributions to society. This month also serves as a time for reflection on persistent issues such as the exclusion of women from textbooks and research. Historically, women have been overlooked and marginalized in scientific research, a pattern that regrettably continues in many fields, including Parkinson’s research.
While much of my column focuses on my dad’s experience with Parkinson’s disease, I want to take a moment to highlight some of the unique challenges faced by women living with Parkinson’s disease today.
In exploring the differences men and women encounter while navigating Parkinson’s, I discovered that women with the disease are misdiagnosed more frequently than men. One contributing factor is that Parkinson’s symptoms often manifest differently in women, who are more likely to experience non-motor symptoms. Furthermore, because much of Parkinson’s research has historically focused on men, emerging symptoms in women can be harder to recognize and diagnose.
Women are also often diagnosed with Parkinson’s at a later stage, possibly due to these same factors. Although researchers are seeking ways to detect the disease earlier, late diagnosis can make disease management more challenging, as much of the damage has already occurred. Earlier identification and treatment could significantly improve quality of life and help maintain it over time.
Dyskinesia is a debilitating symptom that many Parkinson’s patients must manage, most often resulting from long-term use of levodopa. This condition can make everyday activities — such as dressing and walking — difficult. Although research into women’s experiences with dyskinesia is still emerging, findings indicate that women are more likely to develop dyskinesia, and at lower medication dosages than men. They also experience more frequent issues with levodopa “wearing off” too quickly.
Parkinson’s is a devastating disease, and knowledge truly is power. As research continues to advance, the field urgently needs more women-focused studies to better understand the gender-specific challenges women face. The lack of research centered on women in Parkinson’s is not unique to this field, but it highlights broader issues in how women’s health is supported and studied.
Note: Parkinson’s News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Parkinson’s News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Parkinson’s disease.
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