Clinical Features and Risk Factors of Parkinson’s Disease in a Population of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most common neurological disorders that mostly affect aged individuals. The common symptoms of PD are rest tremor, bradykinesia, and rigidity. Objectives: The present study was devised to find out the clinical features and risk factors associated with PD in a population of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Methods:A total of 600 PD patients and 1,200 control individuals took part in this study. The participants filled out a standard questionnaire. Results: This study found a significant association between PD and exposure to pesticides (p < 0.0001) and doing work on farms (p < 0.0001). The use of aldrin was significantly associated with PD (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, we also found that PD status was associated with individuals who have a history of depression, hypertension, head injury, and Alzheimer’s disease. This study also showed that the PD rate was lower in those who were using tobacco products. Conclusion: In this case-control study, we revealed some environmental and medical conditions that are linked with PD. To control the disease, we must minimize exposure to pesticides, and the government and scientific community should play their role.