Parkinson’s is a progressive, chronic and complex neurodegenerative disease that has no cure. It affects all aspects of daily living and is the most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s. The effects of Parkinson’s invariably involve the physical, cognitive and psychological domains, and impact across nearly every cultural, social and economic boundary.

This neurodegenerative disease affects about 1.2 million people in Europe. This number is forecast to double by 2030 primarily as a result of the ageing population. The economic consequences of Parkinson’s across Europe are considerable and will increase dramatically as the number of people with Parkinson’s in Europe continues to grow.

EPDA just launched a new website, www.parkinsonslife.eu, with the aim that it will fulfill their goal to improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s by removing the hurdles that prevent people with Parkinson’s from receiving early and appropriate treatment as well as individualised care.

“With Parkinson’s Life we plan to reach and engage users through the delivery of high-quality content – much of it inspired by the users themselves. We want the platform to be a forum to share information about good practices within the management of Parkinson’s, from across Europe and globally” said Dominic Graham of EPDA.

Unlike many other Parkinson’s-related websites, however, Parkinson’s Life aims to encourage its readership to help drive the content of the site, by sharing their stories, resources, advice and awareness-raising campaigns. All users will be encouraged to join the Parkinson’s Life community, where they will be able to comment on stories and suggest new articles for inclusion.

New stories are currently being uploaded on a monthly basis, but as Parkinson’s Life grows in users and influence, we hope and expect more interest from sponsors, which will gradually mean more regular content.

More information: www.parkinsonslife.eu.