60 %
of those diagnosed with Parkinson ’ s disease are men .
Learn more and join at michaeljfox . org / ppmi-study .
What you can do :
+ Make your health a priority It ’ s never a good idea to bury your head in the sand where your health is concerned . See your doctor for yearly checkups . Medicare and many private insurers cover an annual wellness visit for free . An annual visit with your doctor is a good opportunity to stay on top of your health or catch any changes early . And if you or others notice changes in your physical appearance , mood or activity , don ’ t put off talking to your doctor .
Start or continue healthy efforts and ask your partner or friends to join you . Hold each other accountable for making doctor visits , share what you ’ re learning about brain health , or focus your social connections around healthy habits , such as going for a walk while you catch up .
+ Know your risks Certain occupations or job worksites may involve substances that could increase risk for PD . Examples include pesticides used in agriculture work ; solvents used by electricians , machinists or drycleaners ; and chemicals used in welding . Ask your employer about potential risks and ways to protect yourself .
Also learn what diseases run in your family . Find out what conditions your parents , grandparents and siblings live or lived with . This helps you and your doctor know what to watch for and how to limit risk .
+ Volunteer for research Sex can play a significant role in health and disease . It can impact biology , behavior and disease experience . By learning more about these differences , doctors can provide better care , and researchers can develop better treatments and , ultimately , prevent disease . But they need men to participate . Overall , men are less likely to join studies on health promotion or health-related behaviors . Without men , researchers won ’ t find answers to better health for both men and women .
Participating in research is one way to contribute answers for yourself and others . Many say joining research allows them to take action in their health . It can give you more regular , direct contact with health care professionals and help you understand your own health journey .
The Parkinson ’ s Progression Markers Initiative ( PPMI ) study , which follows people with and without PD in pursuit of better treatments , a cure and prevention of PD , needs men , especially those 60 and older .
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