Longitudinal study evaluating the role of physical activity in modifying Parkinson's disease progression

TL;DR

This study shows that higher physical activity levels are linked to slower progression of Parkinson's disease over two years.

Contribution

The study provides evidence that physical activity may slow Parkinson's disease progression in patients.

Findings

Highly active patients showed slower motor decline compared to sedentary individuals.

Physical activity levels were associated with reduced functional decline over 24 months.

Results suggest regular activity may positively influence Parkinson's disease trajectory.

Abstract

The role of physical activity in modifying Parkinson's disease progression is of interest. This longitudinal study followed 118
patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease over 24 months to evaluate the impact of physical activity on disease progression.
Participants were grouped based on physical activity levels sedentary, moderately active and highly active using standardized activity
questionnaires. Disease severity was assessed using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) and Hoehn and Yahr staging.
Patients with higher physical activity levels showed slower motor and functional decline compared to sedentary individuals. Thus, we
show that regular physical activity may positively influence the trajectory of Parkinson's disease.