Florida Among Top 10 U.S. States With the Highest Parkinson’s Death Rate

Florida Among Top 10 U.S. States With the Highest Parkinson’s Death Rate

National research on neurodegenerative diseases has intensified with alarming findings across multiple states. A comprehensive study by Las Vegas-based Ladah Law Firm reveals that Florida has the fifth-highest Parkinson’s disease-related mortality rate in America at 13.69 deaths per 100,000 residents—16% above the national average.

The Sunshine State’s troubling statistics show significant fluctuation, with annual deaths reaching a five-year peak of 3,171 in 2021. This places Florida among several states with concerning mortality rates related to the disease, suggesting potential environmental factors requiring urgent investigation in a state with nearly 22 million residents.

Key Findings

• Florida – 13.69 deaths per 100,000 residents (16% above national average)
• Maine – 15.99 deaths per 100,000 residents (36% above national average)
• West Virginia – 14.02 deaths per 100,000 residents (19% above national average)

Parkinson’s disease is claiming lives across the World. A new study has revealed that Florida is among the states with the highest Parkinson’s disease-related deaths in America.

The research analyzed the Parkinson’s disease mortality data between 2018 and 2022, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The average annual deaths were calculated to identify the top 10 states with the highest Parkinson’s disease-related mortality rates.

Florida ranks fifth with a Parkinson’s disease-related mortality rate of 13.69 deaths per 100,000 residents, exceeding the national average of 11.78 by 16%. The Sunshine State reported an average of 2,967 Parkinson’s disease-related deaths annually, with its five-year high of 3,171 deaths in 2021 and its lowest of 2,666 deaths in 2019.

States With the Highest Parkinson’s Mortality Rates

A spokesperson at Ladah Law commented that “The data reveals that Florida reported the fifth highest Parkinson’s disease mortality rates in the U.S.”

“Parkinson’s disease is most common among the elderly people. The exact causes aren’t fully understood, but genetics, exposure to pesticides and varied kinds of toxins may play a role. Symptoms often start with movement problems, but mood issues like depression and anxiety can also be early signs.”

“Treatments like medications, physical therapy, and mental health support can help reduce symptoms. Experts recommend a balanced diet, exercise, and stress management to minimize the risk.” 

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive movement disorder of the nervous system where nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine are damaged or die. This leads to a reduction in dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter essential for movement coordination. The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While there’s no cure, medications and therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Diagnosis is typically made by a neurologist based on a medical history, physical exam, and review of symptoms. The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can vary in both severity and progression. 

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Common symptoms include but are not limited to tremors, stiffness, slow movement, and postural instability, but can also include non-motor symptoms like sleep problems, depression, and constipation. 

Motor Symptoms 

• Tremors: Rhythmic shaking, often starting in one hand or foot. 
• Stiffness (Rigidity): Muscle stiffness makes it difficult to move. 
• Slowed Movement (Bradykinesia): Difficulty initiating and continuing movements, making tasks like walking and talking more challenging. 
• Postural Instability: Difficulty with balance and an increased risk of falls. 

Non-Motor Symptoms

• Sleep Problems: Insomnia, restless sleep, and REM sleep behavior disorder. 
• Mood Changes: Depression, anxiety, and fatigue. 
• Cognitive Difficulties: Dementia, memory problems, and difficulty with executive functions. 
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Constipation, difficulty swallowing, and loss of smell. 

Stages of Parkinson’s Disease

The 5 stages of Parkinson’s disease, as defined by the Hohen and Yahr scale are:

• Stage 1: Mild symptoms, such as tremors, may be present on one side of the body. They don’t significantly interfere with daily activities. 
• Stage 2: Symptoms affect both sides of the body, and walking and posture may become more noticeable. Daily activities are still possible, but they might take longer. 
• Stage 3: Balance and coordination become impaired, increasing the risk of falls. Individuals may need assistive devices like walkers or canes. 
• Stage 4: Symptoms are severe and limiting, making it difficult to walk and stand. Daily activities require significant assistance. 
• Stage 5: The most advanced stage, where individuals are usually confined to bed or a wheelchair. They may experience confusion, hallucinations, and delusions. 

Management of Parkinson’s Disease

Management aims to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression. Treatment plans are individualized and may vary depending on the severity of symptoms, patient preferences, and overall health. 

Medications

• Levodopa (L-dopa): The primary medication that increases dopamine levels in the brain. 
• Dopamine agonists: Mimic dopamine and can be used in early stages or when L-dopa becomes less effective. 
• MAO inhibitors and COMT inhibitors: Prevent the breakdown of dopamine. 
• Anticholinergics: Reduce tremors and rigidity. 

Non-Pharmacological Therapies 

• Physical therapy: Improves mobility, balance, and coordination.
• Occupational therapy: Assists with daily activities such as dressing and eating.
• Speech therapy: Addresses speech and swallowing difficulties.
• Nutritional counseling: Provides guidance on a healthy diet to support overall well-being. 

Surgical Interventions

• Deep brain stimulation (DBS): Implants electrodes in specific brain regions to regulate abnormal electrical activity. 
• Pallidotomy: Destroys a small part of the brain that contributes to tremors and rigidity. 

Other Considerations

• Regular medical follow-ups: To monitor symptoms, adjust medications, and assess treatment effectiveness. 
• Lifestyle modifications: Exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep can improve symptoms. 
• Support groups: Connecting with others who have Parkinson’s can provide emotional support and information. 

Advanced Management 

• Stem cell therapy: Experimental treatment that aims to replace damaged dopamine-producing cells. 
• Gene therapy: Investigational approach to correct genetic mutations responsible for Parkinson’s. 

Ongoing Research and Future Directions

While a cure isn’t available yet, research continues to advance in several areas, including:

• Disease-modifying therapies: Researchers are actively exploring treatments that could slow, stop, or even reverse the progression of the disease, including gene therapies, stem cell therapies, and therapies targeting the misfolding of alpha-synuclein protein.
• Improved drug delivery: Researchers are developing new formulations of levodopa and other medications to provide more consistent and longer-lasting symptom control, reducing motor fluctuations and “off” periods.
• Precision medicine: Researchers are investigating genetic factors that contribute to the disease to develop personalized treatments tailored to individual patients’ genetic profiles. 

Living Well With Parkinson’s

Despite the lack of a cure, people with Parkinson’s can live fulfilling lives with appropriate management and support. 

• Exercise: Regular physical activity, including aerobic exercise, strength training, and balance exercises, can help maintain mobility, improve mood, and potentially slow disease progression.
• Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fiber and fluids can help manage constipation and other non-motor symptoms.
• Support groups: Connecting with others who have Parkinson’s disease can provide emotional support and practical advice. 

Important Note: One person’s experience with Parkinson’s disease can be different than another’s. The information provided here is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized diagnosis and treatment options. 

This article was written by TJ Webber at the WHN News Desk, which was created with some of the information supplied by the Ladah Law Firm based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.