Disease Basics

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, mood, cognition, and many other aspects of daily life. It develops when dopamine-producing neurons in a brain region called the substantia nigra deteriorate and die, disrupting the signaling pathways that control smooth, coordinated movement. The disease is the second most common neurodegenerative condition in the world, affecting nearly one million Americans and more than eleven million people globally. As the population ages, these numbers are projected to continue rising sharply.

Whether you have been recently diagnosed, are supporting a loved one, or want to understand the condition better, these articles cover the essential facts — from what happens in the brain to how the disease is staged, diagnosed, and managed over time. Every article includes source citations from peer-reviewed medical literature and is reviewed for accuracy.