A risk factor raises your chances of getting a health problem. You can get Parkinson disease with or without the ones listed here. But the more you have, the greater your chances are of getting it.
Parkinson disease is more common in people over 65 years of age. Other things that may raise the risk are:
Family History
Parkinson disease is more common in people with certain gene changes. It is also more common in people who have family members with the disease.
Occupational and Environmental Factors
Exposure to pesticides may raise the risk. The risk is greater in people who work on farms. People who drink well water also have a higher risk.
Other Health Conditions
Other health problems that may raise the risk are:
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Parkinson's disease information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Parkinsons-Disease-Information-Page. Updated August 28, 2019. Accessed February 24, 2020.
Last reviewed November 2019 by EBSCO Medical Review Board
Rimas Lukas, MD
Last Updated: 1/27/2021