Underdiagnosis and Lack of Treatment for Parkinson’s Among Black Individuals

The organizers of a large U.S. exercise program for people with Parkinson’s disease noticed a lack of diversity among participants, with most being white. Efforts to recruit Black participants have been challenging, despite the benefits of exercise in alleviating symptoms and improving mobility for Parkinson’s patients. Studies have shown that exercise can improve the health of dopamine-producing neurons, which are affected by Parkinson’s. Bias and lack of awareness about the disease in the Black community have been identified as barriers to participation in exercise programs. Black adults report experiencing unfair treatment in healthcare settings based on their race, which can contribute to delays in diagnoses and reluctance to seek treatment. Building trust and increasing participation in exercise programs for Parkinson’s patients requires Black leaders to lead education and recruitment efforts. Some organizations are working to provide resources and support for underserved communities to start their own exercise programs. Ultimately, increasing diversity in Parkinson’s exercise programs is crucial to ensuring equitable access to treatment and improving outcomes for all patients.

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