I spent one month in Vietnam in December-January of 1995-96 and seemed to run into references to Parkinsons constantly. Several parents of teachers in the unit where I studies were hospitalized on and off during that period. Then I interviewed a martial arts instructor in Hanoi who also referred to it several times. It is only an impression, of course, not a systematic study, but I would presume that the exposure to agricultural chemicals is much higher in Vietnamese society than in many societies, and that there may be a link of some sort. It would be worth studying. Jeffrey G. Barlow Professor of History Pacific University, Forest Grove, Oregon USA 97116 e-mail: [log in to unmask] On Sun, 5 May 1996 [log in to unmask] wrote: > One cause of PD that has been questioned is the exposure to chemicals or > pestisides. > I am interested in an informal survey of prior occupation(s) of PD patients. > > My mother has PSP (progressive supranuclear palsy) which is a PD-plus and her > friend has PD. Both were beauticians (yes, some exposure to chemicals and > fumes). Her cousin has three family members with PD who all were farmers > (exposure to pestisides). > > I would welcome ALL responses, explanations, suggestions regarding the issue > of PD and occupation. > > Thank you > > Catherina May > Jackson, Michigan >