JAKARTA - The Ministry of Health stated that World Parkinson's Day with the theme United for Progress, Hope for All, which is commemorated on April 11, emphasizes the importance of international solidarity, fairer access to treatment, and innovative research.
"Currently, more than ten million people worldwide live with Parkinson's, a figure that continues to increase as the population ages. In Indonesia, the number of sufferers is estimated to have exceeded 1.1 million people by 2026, with around 80 thousand new cases every year," said Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups at the Ministry of Health Imran Pambudi, in Jakarta, Monday.
He said that the disease, first described by Dr. James Parkinson in 1817 in his work An Essay on the Shaking Palsy, remains one of the world's major health challenges due to its progressive nature and its wide impact on quality of life.
According to him, this disease reflects the reality of aging society and the increasing burden of degenerative diseases. World figures such as Muhammad Ali, Michael J. Fox, and Neil Diamond serve as a reminder that Parkinson's knows no boundaries of profession or social status, and their journeys continue to inspire resilience.
Parkinson's symptoms usually appear gradually. The typical tremor, slowed body movements, muscle stiffness, and balance disorders are the main signs. But the impact does not stop at the motor aspect. Many sufferers also face depression, sleep disorders, and cognitive function decline, even complications such as pneumonia that worsen the condition.
Although the exact cause of Parkinson's disease has not been fully understood, a number of risk factors have been identified, ranging from genetics, exposure to environmental toxins, to head trauma. Prevention efforts are still general, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, consuming foods rich in antioxidants, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.
"Exposure to sunlight to maintain vitamin D levels is also believed to play a role in supporting brain health," he said.
Parkinson's treatment to date focuses on managing symptoms. Levodopa remains the main drug to increase dopamine levels, while physical and speech therapy help sufferers maintain mobility and communication skills.
Deep brain stimulation has become an effective surgical option to reduce motor symptoms. Beyond that, complementary therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, massage, meditation, aromatherapy, and music are increasingly used to improve quality of life, although they still need medical supervision.
Outside the medical aspect, he said, the role of the family is very important and irreplaceable. In addition to providing emotional support that helps sufferers deal with anxiety and depression, families also ensure that patients follow the therapy schedule and get the right medical attention.
In Indonesia, he said, the government through PERDOSNI has issued guidelines for the management of Parkinson's disease and expanded access to health services. Communities such as Parkinson Indonesia and Bali Parkinson Warriors (BAPARWA) are active in providing education and support, although a wider awareness campaign, financial support, and research investment are still needed.
For Indonesia, he said, this anniversary is an opportunity to strengthen the health system, expand the scope of BPJS for degenerative diseases, and build a more caring and inclusive society.
"As Michael J. Fox, an actor who has lived with Parkinson's for decades, once said: 'Parkinson's doesn't define me, it gives me a platform to help others'. This quote reminds us that behind limitations there is always the power to inspire and strengthen," he said.
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