Advocacy

Is Parkinson’s disease a man-made disease?

May 21 2025

Is Parkinson’s disease, the word’s fastest growing neurological condition a disease of our own making? Dutch neurologist Bas Bloem certainly believes so, as do many of his international colleagues. A growing body of evidence links the disease to herbicides, pesticides, industrial chemicals, and air pollution, among a range of environmental factors.

Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder that robs sufferers of many of their faculties over time, is the world’s fastest growing neurodegenerative disease. It has been described as an emerging pandemic, with numbers expected to double over the next 15 years. And it is no coincidence that it was first described in London 200 years ago, by Dr James Parkinson, during the height of the industrial revolution.

While genetics and age play a role in elevating the risk of disease (and some rare genetic mutations will cause it), the major driver of this insidious disease is exposure to environmental toxicants. Farmers and their families are particularly at risk given the very strong associations that have been identified between use of herbicides and pesticides like paraquat, heptachlor, and rotenone, and Parkinson’s disease. Paraquat has been found to increase the risk by as much as 200–600% depending on the level and duration of exposure, and it is now banned in many countries, but not NZ (it is however highly restricted!). Further, the risk of Parkinson’s is not confined to those working with these chemicals, but also extends to those living near their application. Some of these chemicals enter the food chain and water supply as well, just adding to the exposures.

If a disease like Parkinson’s is indeed man-made, it should also be preventable through smart regulation and careful use of chemicals to reduce exposures. That is why it is so important to know what you’re using, and to stay informed about which chemicals are linked to health risks. It is critical to use appropriate protective gear including gloves, long-sleeved clothing, eye protection, and a certified respirator when spraying or mixing chemicals. If you are experiencing symptoms such as loss of smell, difficulty sleeping (especially acting out dreams), tremors, or slowed movement, ask to see a neurologist familiar with Parkinson’s and mention your occupational exposure.

The emerging Parkinson’s pandemic already impacts 13,000 Kiwis and costs the NZ economy ~$600M annually. With the right knowledge and approach, you can avoid adding to those statistics.

This Editorial appeared in the May 19 issue of Farmer’s Weekly, as part of their Fieldays Overview.

If you would like to read more about the situation in Europe, including tighter regulation, you might be interested in this article in the newspaper Politico Europe, featuring the work and opinions of Dutch neurologist Bas Bloem.