- More than 8.5 million people globally have Parkinson’s disease.
- Researchers have linked Parkinson’s disease to exposure to toxins, such as pesticides and air pollution.
- Now, scientists from the University of Rochester believe a commonly-used chemical called trichloroethylene (TCE) may also cause Parkinson’s disease.
More than
Doctors still do not understand why Parkinson’s occurs. However, the disease has been linked to low levels of dopamine and
Additionally, researchers believe exposure to certain toxins, such as
Now researchers from the University of Rochester are adding additional evidence by finding a link between Parkinson’s disease and a commonly-used chemical called trichloroethylene (TCE).
The study appears in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease.
TCE is a colorless liquid chemical that does not occur in nature. It is known to have a chloroform-like odor.
This chemical may be found in a variety of products and industries, including:
- commercial dry cleaning
- metal degreasing
- cleaning wipes
- stain removers for clothing and carpeting
- lubricants
- spray adhesives
People can become exposed to TCE by using a product containing TCE or working in a factory where the chemical is present.
Additionally, TCE can leach into the water, air, and soil around where it is used or disposed of, contaminating what we breathe, eat, and drink.
Symptoms of exposure to high amounts of TCE include:
Previous studies link prolonged exposure to TCE to increased risk for
Dr. Ray Dorsey, a professor of neurology at the University of Rochester and lead author…
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