Golfers Face 126% Higher Parkinson’s Risk - Here’s Why

Mark Hyman, MD

609 views • 9 months ago 4 min read

Video Summary

A study revealed that individuals living within one mile of a golf course experienced a 126% increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease compared to those residing six miles or further away. This heightened risk is attributed to the substantial amounts of pesticides used to maintain golf courses, which can contaminate water supplies and be inhaled, particularly by those living downwind. The research also indicated that green space workers, such as landscapers, face a higher risk for Parkinson's disease and ALS.

The findings suggest a preventable aspect to these neurological conditions, emphasizing the importance of environmental awareness. Practical steps for golfers include inquiring about the specific pesticides used, requesting notification of spraying schedules to minimize exposure, and considering interventions like air purifiers or avoiding play immediately after spraying.

Further advice for reducing exposure involves being mindful of water sources, using carbon filters, and bringing personal water. For smokers, it's recommended to avoid placing cigars on the ground where they can pick up pesticides. The overarching message highlights that understanding and managing environmental exposures can be crucial in mitigating risks for neurological diseases.

Short Highlights

Living within one mile of a golf course is associated with a 126% increased risk of Parkinson's disease.
Pesticides used on golf courses can contaminate water supplies and pose inhalation risks, especially when living downwind.
Green space workers, including landscapers, are at a higher risk for Parkinson's disease and ALS.
Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and ALS are suggested to be preventable neurological diseases by paying attention to environmental factors.
Individuals can reduce exposure by inquiring about pesticide use, avoiding spraying times, using air purifiers, and filtering water.

Key Details

Golf Courses and Parkinson's Disease Risk [00:00]

Individuals living within one mile of a golf course showed a 126% increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease compared to those living six or more miles away.
This increased risk is linked to the significant quantities of toxins, specifically pesticides, sprayed on golf courses.

This section highlights a strong correlation between proximity to golf courses and a significantly elevated risk of Parkinson's disease, attributing it to extensive pesticide use.

"individuals who live within one mile of a golf course had a 126% increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease compared to individuals who lived six or more miles apart."

Pesticide Exposure Pathways [01:10]

Research suggests that pesticides can enter the water supply, posing a risk to those who drink well water, especially in rural areas near farms.
There is also a concern about pesticides sprayed into the air and inhaled, with a small report indicating that many patients living near a golf course were downwind.
Parkinson's disease is thought by some to begin in the nose, making the inhalation of nerve toxins a significant concern.

This part of the discussion delves into the mechanisms by which pesticide exposure can lead to neurological issues, focusing on both water contamination and airborne particles.

"I worry about the pesticides that are sprayed into the air."

Strategies for Reducing Exposure [02:09]

Golfers are advised to inquire about the types of pesticides used by golf courses and to ask if less toxic alternatives can be employed.
It is also suggested to find out when pesticides are being sprayed so that interventions can be taken, such as leaving the area or closing windows.
For those concerned about air quality, using an air purifier is recommended, and one might consider an air-conditioned golf cart.
It is advised not to drink water from the golf course and to consider bringing your own.
For smokers, it's important not to place cigars on the ground where they can pick up pesticides.

This section provides actionable advice for golfers and individuals in similar environments to minimize their exposure to pesticides and reduce potential health risks.

"ask the golf course what pesticides they use. See if they can use less toxic pesticides."

Broader Environmental Links and Preventability [02:51]

Studies have found that green space workers, including landscapers, are at a higher risk for Parkinson's disease and, in one study, ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease).
These findings suggest that many brain diseases, like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and ALS, are preventable if environmental factors are addressed.
The concept of organic golf courses is introduced as a parallel to organic produce, questioning why this practice isn't more widespread.

This final part expands the scope to other environmental occupations and reinforces the idea that neurological conditions may be preventable through greater attention to our surroundings, drawing a parallel with the organic movement in food production.