Approximately 22,000 people live with Parkinson’s disease in Slovakia, while almost 5,000 new patients are added annually. This follows from the data of the National Center for Health Information (NCZI), which was provided to TASR by communications specialist Simona Uhlárová Jarošová on the occasion of World Parkinson’s Day.
According to NCZI, in 2024, 4,814 new patients were diagnosed in neurological clinics and 21,921 people with this diagnosis were monitored, of which 11,143 were men and 10,778 were women. “After a decrease in the number of patients during the pandemic years, we are watching a re-increase. While in 2021, neurological outpatient clinics registered approximately 19,000 patients, in 2024 there were almost 22,000,” explained NCZI spokesperson Alena Krčová. According to her, it follows from the long-term data that the representation of men and women among patients is relatively balanced, with slight fluctuations in individual years.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disease of the nervous systemwhich arises as a result of the degeneration of the parts of the brain responsible for controlling movement. In addition to the route, it is also manifested by slowing of movements, muscle stiffness or balance disorders. Non-motor symptoms include, for example, sleep disturbances, depression, constipation or loss of smell.
The disease is most often diagnosed in people over 60, but approximately one in ten patients is under 50. NCZI pointed out that the first symptoms may not be clear. Typical motor manifestations include slowed movements, muscle stiffness, tremors, and balance problems. However, not all patients suffer from tremors – about a third do not. The problem can also be pointed out by the shrinking of the font, difficulty in chewing, swallowing and speech articulation.
As Krčová pointed out, the exact cause of the disease is unknown, a combination of genetic and environmental factors is assumed. Parkinson’s disease is incurable, but treatment can alleviate its symptoms and improve patients’ quality of life. In addition to drugs, advanced methods such as deep brain stimulation are also used.
“Early diagnosis and properly adjusted treatment can significantly influence the course of the disease and help patients maintain their independence and quality of life for as long as possible,” added Krčová. She emphasized that an important part of the treatment is also regular movement, rehabilitation and support from the family and surroundings. Ideal movement for people with Parkinson’s is walking with sticks, but also dancing or strength training.
