SURGICAL PROCEDURES, CURRENT TREATMENT FOCUS OF
  "TAKING CONTROL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE" SYMPOSIUM
 
June 14 Satellite Conference to Involve 6,000 Patients, Caregivers,
Physicians --
 
New York, NY, June 8 -- Recent reports of experimental and potentially fatal
surgical procedures to eliminate Parkinson's disease symptoms have raised
awareness about the disease, but may have set unrealistic expectations for
millions affected by the condition.  To put surgical treatments for
Parkinson's in perspective, and provide insights on current treatment and new
research, the American Parkinson Disease Association will host "Taking
Control of Parkinson's Disease," a three-hour symposium broadcast live to
seven major US cities nationwide via satellite on Wednesday, June 14.
 
The interactive event, held during Parkinson's Disease Awareness Week, will
directly involve more than 4,000 patients, caregivers and physicians who
attend official sites.  Interest in this program has been widespread.  In
addition to the official sites, more than 2,000 individuals -- under the
auspices of PD support groups, movement disorder centers and community
hospitals -- plan to obtain the satellite feed.
 
"The search for a magic bullet to treat Parkinson's disease has been ongoing
for years and is increasing in intensity," said Ray L. Watts, MD, associate
professor, Department of Neurology and director, Movement Disorders Program,
Emory University School of Medicine.  "Until the scientific community learns
more, medications and other treatments remain the best weapon against
Parkinson's in most people, as they can minimize patients' symptoms and
perhaps even slow the progression of the disease."
 
Traditional medication therapy for Parkinson's disease has been Sinemetr
(levodopa/carbidopa).  However, because prolonged use sometimes can result in
negative side effects and a "wearing off" phenomenon, many physicians
prescribe newer agents such as Eldeprylr (selegiline hydrochloride).
 Eldepryl may help to control/delay the need for levodopa increases, minimize
levodopa-related side effects and extend the length of time that the
medication is effective.
 
Other medications to treat PD symptoms include anticholinergics such as
Symmetrelr (amantadine HCL) and dopamine agonists such as Parlodelr
(bromocriptine mesylate).  Dopamine agonists are medications similar enough
to dopamine to mimic its action and stimulate neurotransmission directly,
sending messages to the body to move.
 
Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder resulting
from a destruction of cells in the part of the brain that produces dopamine.
 Over time, the disease causes tremors, rigidity, and loss of motor
functions, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to perform
routine activities such as walking, eating and getting out of bed.  It is
estimated that approximately one million Americans have the disease, and
another 500,000 cases are either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
 
"Taking Control of Parkinson's Disease" will be beamed live from New York
City to regions with high incidence of PD:  Atlanta, Chicago, Cincinnati,
Phoenix, San Diego and Tampa.  The discussion will be led by Warren Olanow,
MD, chairman, Department of Neurology, Mt. Sinai Medical Center; Ray L.
Watts, MD, associate professor of neurology and director of the Movement
Disorders Program, Emory University School of Medicine; and William Koller,
MD, chairman, Department of Neurology, University of Kansas Medical Center.
These leading Parkinson's experts will also moderate a discussion during the
program to allow participants at each site to ask questions.
 
Symposium topics include:
 
* Disease Management Today, a look at current treatment and lifestyle options
 
 
* Treatment: A Look Towards Tomorrow, in which ongoing research such as
pallidotomy and fetal tissue transplantation will be detailed
 
* Lifestyle, Support Options, which will showcase valuable techniques, tips
and support programs to help patients improve their quality of life
 
According to a recent APDA patient/physician survey, PD patients are taking
an active role in learning about and managing their condition.  The survey
found that more than two-thirds (69%) have conducted personal research and
nearly half (46%) contact PD associations for support.  It also uncovered
that nearly half (45%) want more information on how to maintain an active
lifestyle.
 
"We are very pleased to be able to offer patients across the country an
opportunity to form a unique bond with others who share similar experiences
and challenges," said Sal Esposito, president, APDA.  "In addition to
supporting research initiatives, our organization is committed to providing
patients and caregivers the educational tools to live a better life."
 
The American Parkinson's Disease Association is a national charitable
organization dedicated to increasing PD patients' knowledge and understanding
of their disease.  Further, the association aims at improving patients'
quality of life through advances in research, diagnosis and treatment.
 
The following locations are official symposium sites:
 
* New York City:  Equitable Center, 787 Seventh Avenue @ 52nd Street
* Atlanta:  Atlanta Market Center - Inforum, 250 Williams Street
* Chicago:  Chicago Marriott Downtown, 540 North Michigan Avenue
* Cincinnati:  Omni Netherland Plaza, 35 West 5th Street
* Phoenix:  Camelback Inn,  5502 East Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale
* San Diego:  Holiday Inn on the Bay, 1355 North Harbor Drive
* Tampa:  Hyatt Regency - Tampa, 211 North Tampa Street
 
The symposium is cosponsored by Sandoz Pharmaceuticals and Somerset
Pharmaceuticals.  Over the years, these two companies have worked with APDA
and other PD associations to provide patient education to help Parkinson's
patients take control of their disease and lead productive, fulfilling lives.
 
Patients, physicians and caregivers who want to participate in the symposium
can call the APDA at 1-800-223-2732 for registration information.