Parkinson's Disease And Cancer: 16 Types Of Cancer Linked To Progressive Disorder

A new study conducted by Taiwanese researchers links Parkinson's disease, a progressive disorder of the nervous system that gradually affects the body's ability to function, to an increased risk for developing 16 types of cancers. The research contradicts the findings of more than 25 Western studies suggesting that Parkinson's actually lowers an individual's risk for different types of cancer.

For the study, researchers built a study group with over 60,000 newly diagnosed patients from 2004 to 2010 and more than 120,000 control participants without the disease. Data used in the study came from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database.

Findings revealed that while the neurodegenerative health issue was not linked to an increased risk of developing breast, ovarian or thyroid cancers, there was an increased risk for lung cancers, skin cancers, malignant brain cancers, lymphoma/leukemia, urinary tract cancers and hormone-related cancers.

"Based on this nationwide study on the association between PD [Parkinson disease] and cancer risk, we conclude that PD is a risk factor for most cancer in Taiwan. In our cohort, only breast, ovarian and thyroid cancers show no association with PD," Pan-Chyr Yang, study leader and professor of medicine in National Taiwan University College of Medicine, said in a press release.

However, researchers still need to determine at this time just why the latest Taiwanese study disputes previous findings on Parkinson's. Further studies will be necessary in order to cement any potential connections--or lack thereof--to the illness and cancer. 

As many as one million Americans are estimated to live with Parkinson's disease and an estimated seven to 10 million people worldwide are also estimated to be living with the illness, according to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation. Men are one and a half time's more likely to have Parkinson's than women and initial symptoms may include resting tremor, slow movement, otherwise known as bradykinesia, rigidity and postural instability.

If you suspect you or someone you know may be experiencing symptoms, talk with your doctor. There is no cure for Parkinson's, but medications and treatments make it manageable.

More information regarding the study findings can be seen via JAMA Oncology.

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