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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.