Parkinson's Action Network
822 College Avenue, Ste. C
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
(707)544-1994 Phone
(800)820-4716 Phone
(707)544-2363 FAX
Parkinson's Disease
In Parkinson's disease, cells that produce the neurochemical dopamine
degenerate, causing tremor, muscle stiffness and loss of motor function.
Medication masks some symptoms for a limited period, generally four to eight
years in most victims, but begins causing dose-limiting side-effects.
Eventually medications lose their effectiveness, and in the final stages of
the disease the victim is unable to move, swallow or speak. Although the
cause is still uncertain, environmental toxins are a suspect.
The Cost
the National Institutes of Health estimates that between 500,000 and
1,500,000 Americans are afflicted with Parkinson's, with 50,000 more
diagnosed each year. Approximately 40% are under the age of 60, effectively
removing them from the productive work force. Unlike many other deadly
ailments, Parkinson's victims remain alive but incapacitated for many years,
sometimes decades, requiring a similar number of family members to be
diverted from the work force by their role as caregivers.
As a result, PD is estimated to cost the U.S. $6 billion a year in
health-related expenses, in direct disability-related costs and lost
productivity.
The Mission
The Parkinson's Action Network (PAN) was founded in 1991 to provide a
unified, national voice for the Parkinson's community and to promote a level
of research support sufficient to produce effective treatment and a cure
before the end of the decade. This has required:
Developing an informed and effective grassroots network, involving
individuals afflicted with the disease, their families, Parkinson's
foundations, support organizations and interested scientists.
Increasing public awareness of Parkinson's disease and its impact on
individuals, on health costs, and on the country as a whole.
Working to strengthen the Parkinson's research program conducted by the
National Institutes of Health, through monitoring of the program and
relationships with key officials and staff of NIH and the several Parkinson's
related institutes.
Working with Congress and the Clinton Administration, directly and
through grassroots advocacy, to increase their awareness of the needs of the
Parkinson's community and the impact of their decision-making on that
community.
In July of 1994 the "Morris K. Udall Parkinson's Research and Education Act"
was introduced in the Senate
and House by a bipartisan group of sponsors. This legislation authorizes an
expanded and aggressive
Parkinson's research program. The bill is scheduled to be reintroduced in
the early days of the 104th
Congress.
