Initial Parkinson's disease diagnoses have surged by nearly 39 per cent across Central and North West London since 2023, new figures have revealed.
The data, obtained through a Freedom of Information Request by BMAS, shows an even more dramatic pattern among women.
Female patients have seen first diagnoses jump by more than 69 per cent, overturning traditional assumptions that the condition mainly strikes men.
The sharp increase has prompted fresh attention on recognising the condition's early indicators, particularly as many people mistake initial symptoms for normal ageing.
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Many take the early indicators of Parkinson's for signs of ageing
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Symptoms of Parkinson's
With approximately 166,000 people living with Parkinson's across the UK, the rising diagnosis rates in London suggest more people are seeking medical help for concerning symptoms.
When someone's handwriting gets smaller or their voice becomes quieter, it's easy to assume they're getting older, but these subtle changes could actually signal something more serious.
Amelia Hornsby from the Bathing Mobility Advisory Service pointed out that "the symptoms of Parkinson's disease can be deeply concerning for everyone involved".
She believes that having open discussions about the condition's common indicators helps build awareness and ensures people get proper support.
Recent research at King's College London identified a gene that appears early in life, which scientists think might be connected to Parkinson's development.
The discovery adds another piece to the puzzle of understanding why diagnoses are climbing so rapidly.
Early symptoms of Parkinson's
The five key early warning signs of Parkinson's that people should watch for are tremors, particularly in the hands or fingers when resting, which are often the first noticeable sign and tend to worsen gradually.
Daily activities like getting dressed or walking can become noticeably slower, with movements feeling more difficult to start.
Some people might also experience ongoing muscle tightness that doesn't ease up when trying to relax.
Walking patterns may also change as steps become shorter, arms don't swing as much, and keeping good posture gets harder. Falls may become more common as a result.
Finally, voices can become quieter or more monotone, while handwriting often shrinks and becomes cramped; a symptom doctors call micrographia.
Miss Hornsby stressed that although discussing these symptoms can feel emotional, spotting them early makes a real difference.
"Recognising these early signs is crucial, as timely support and treatment can greatly improve quality of life for those living with Parkinson's Disease," she explained.
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Approximately 166,000 people live with Parkinson's across the UK
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She added that while individual symptoms don't automatically mean someone has Parkinson's, it's worth speaking to a doctor for peace of mind and proper assessment.
"By raising awareness of these common indicators, we can help more people seek the support they need sooner rather than later," Miss Hornsby noted.
Getting medical advice promptly means people can access appropriate care and support when it matters most.
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