Crucial to educate people about Parkinson's disease, says Sabah doctor
Published on: Tuesday, April 09, 2024
Parkinson Association of West Coast Sabah's medical advisor Dr. Chris Chong encourages the public to spread kindness, support and empathy to those affected. (Photo: Supplied)
Kota Kinabalu: In light of the upcoming World Parkinson’s Day (PD) on Apr. 11, it is crucial to shed light on the challenges faced by individuals living with Parkinson's disease (PD) and to educate the community about PD, said a Sabah-based doctor.
Parkinson’s disease is a complex and chronic progressive nervous system disorder that affects mainly movements or motor symptoms, said Dr. Chris Chong, the medical advisor to the Parkinson Association of West Coast Sabah (Paws), in a statement.
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“However, people with Parkinson’s disease also can have a number of non-motor symptoms, e.g. depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, pain and cognitive impairment,” he said.
“It develops gradually, often starting with barely noticeable tremor in just one hand or foot. While tremor may be the most well-known sign of Parkinson’s disease, the disorder also commonly causes slowing of movements or stiffness of the limbs.
“It is caused by gradual loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, leading to a range of motor and non-motor symptoms. The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but researchers believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors play a role.”
Living with PD can be challenging for both patients and their carers, added Dr. Chong, a neurologist and physician at Gleneagles Hospital Kota Kinabalu.
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The disease, he said, can cause significant impact on their daily lives, mobility and independence, making it essential to raise awareness and promote a supportive community environment.
“While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are treatments available that can help manage its symptoms and improve quality of life for patients,” he said.
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“Medications such as levodopa and dopamine agonist, can help relieve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease by increasing levels of dopamine in the brain.
“Physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy can also be beneficial in improving balance, mobility, and overall quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Surgical intervention such as deep brain stimulation can provide significant relief and improve motor functions in individuals with PD.
“In addition to medical treatment, support groups and community resources play a vital role in providing emotional support, education, and help for individuals and families affected by PD.”
April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, according to the statement.
“By raising awareness we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for those living with PD,” Dr. Chong said.
“On World Parkinson’s Day 2024, let us come together as a community to raise awareness, show support and advocate for the needs of individuals with PD. By doing so, hopefully we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by this challenging condition.
“As a medical advisor for Parkinson Association of West Coast Sabah, I urge our community to join hands in raising awareness and providing support for individuals living with PD.
“I would also encourage the public to spread kindness, support and empathy to those affected. Together we can make a positive impact and enhance the quality of life for those affected by PD.”
About Paws
Paws is a non-governmental organisation in Sabah. Set up in 2019, the organisation's mission is to promote awareness of PD to the community and to offer holistic care to people with the disease.
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