Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder caused by the death of dopamine-generating neurons in particular regions of the brain, affecting multiple body functions. Symptoms are initially mild but worsen over time and include a progressive loss of motor control, causing tremors, impaired balance, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement). Parkinson’s also affects non-motor functions of the brain, which can affect mood, behavior, and cognition. The onset of disease symptoms occurs after age 60 in most people, but 5-10% of people with Parkinson’s may start to experience symptoms before age 50.[1] Although men are around 1.5 times more likely to develop Parkinson’s, women tend to have a faster disease progression and higher mortality rates.[2][3][4]
What is Parkinson’s disease?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder characterized by the death of dopamine-producing neurons, which leads to a progressive loss of motor control and various nonmotor symptoms. Although symptoms typically begin after age 60, a small percentage of people may experience early onset, and the disease affects men and women differently in terms of progression and mortality.