A new peer-reviewed study published in JAMA Network Open has brought global attention to a concerning connection: living near golf courses may increase your risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Does Living Near a Golf Course Increase the Risk of Parkinson’s?
The research, led by Dr. Brittany Krzyzanowski and colleagues, found that residents living close to golf courses-where pesticides and herbicides are frequently applied-faced higher rates of Parkinson’s diagnoses.
👉 Read the full JAMA article here Proximity to Golf Courses and Risk of Parkinson Disease | JAMA Network Open
The study is among the first of its kind to investigate geographic patterns of Parkinson’s in relation to potential environmental exposures from manicured landscapes like golf courses. While it doesn’t prove direct causation, the findings echo a growing body of evidence linking toxic chemicals in our environment to the fastest-growing brain disease in the world.
This Study Made Headlines
The study’s implications triggered widespread media coverage, with Newsweek, People, Yahoo!, and The Independent all reporting on its findings.
The public response has been staggering-one viral Instagram post sharing the study garnered over 3 million views and over 2,400 comments, many from people sharing personal stories of Parkinson’s diagnoses in families living near golf courses or other pesticide-treated areas.
“The evidence is mounting: the chemicals we use to shape our landscapes may be reshaping our brains.”- Dr. Ray Dorsey, neurologist and co-author of The Parkinson’s Plan
What You Can Do: Tips for Golfers and Residents
If you live near a golf course or frequently play on one, there are simple but important actions you can take:
For Golfers:
- Limit direct contact: Avoid retrieving balls from recently treated grass or ponds.
- Wear gloves when golfing and wash hands thoroughly before eating or drinking.
- Leave shoes and gear outside your home or in a garage to avoid tracking pesticides inside.
- Check course maintenance schedules and try to avoid playing shortly after chemical applications.
For Nearby Residents:
- Keep windows closed during and after pesticide applications.
- Install HEPA filters in your home to reduce indoor air contaminants.
- Test your soil and groundwater if you live immediately adjacent to a course.
- Advocate for pesticide-free maintenance practices at local clubs or community-managed courses.
The Parkinson’s Plan: A Deeper Dive
While the JAMA study raised public awareness, The Parkinson’s Plan book by Drs. Ray Dorsey and Michael Okun goes further. It explores this topic-and many others-in greater depth, revealing how everyday toxic chemicals found in our air, water, food, and consumer products are fueling the Parkinson’s epidemic.
The book offers:
- A comprehensive look at the science linking environmental exposures to neurological diseases
- Personal stories from patients and advocates affected by toxic exposures
- Practical, evidence-based steps to reduce your risk and protect your family
- A compelling call to action to eliminate harmful chemicals at the policy level.
“Parkinson’s is largely a man-made disease. And that means we can do something about it.” – The Parkinson’s Plan
📕 Learn more or order your copy at pdplan.org
Parkinson’s and Golf Courses – The Bottom Line
The JAMA study is not just about golf- it’s about how we manage the land around us and what we allow into our bodies and homes. For those seeking clarity, action, and hope, The Parkinson’s Plan is your guide.
📕 Explore The Parkinson’s Plan
📊 Read the study in JAMA Network Open
📣 Join the movement to end Parkinson’s and stand-up against the use of toxic chemicals that cause it
Let’s protect our health-and our future-by facing the truth about what’s underfoot.