Physical activity linked to slower Parkinson's progression

A seven-year study published in the journal Neurology suggests that regular physical activity may be associated with a slower decline in cognitive functions and motor symptoms in individuals with Parkinson's disease.

The research, conducted by scientists from the University of Cincinnati and the Catholic University of Korea, monitored 294 patients with mild to moderate Parkinson's, with an average age of 66. Participants were categorized based on their weekly physical activity levels: less than four hours, between four and eight hours, and more than eight hours.

Findings indicated that the most active group—those engaging in more than eight hours of activity per week—experienced a slower progression of motor symptoms, such as tremors, rigidity, and slowness of movement, as well as a slower decline in memory and other cognitive abilities. Activities studied ranged from moderate tasks like brisk walking and light swimming to intense activities such as jogging and cycling.

Researchers clarified that the study identifies a correlation and does not definitively prove that exercise is the direct cause of the slower disease progression.