Accra: The Anidaso Parkinson's Disease Foundation has called for increased public awareness, education, and support for persons living with Parkinson's disease. Mr. Andrew Jacobs-Bilson, the Executive Secretary to Dr. Vida Obese, the Founder, said the Foundation marked this year's World Parkinson's Day with advocacy and education activities aimed at addressing stigma and misconceptions surrounding the condition.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Jacobs-Bilson made the call at the Pedal for Parkinson's 2026, organised by the Foundation, to commemorate World Parkinson's Disease Day. The premier community cycling event, held on the theme: 'Moving Together for Hope,' sought to raise awareness about Parkinson's disease. The event, which had 25km ride, 5km ride, or virtual participation options, was organised in collaboration with partners including Yenko Mobility, Ghana Cycling Federation, and Gladiators Cycling Club.
Mr. Jacobs-Bilson, also a Pharmacist, noted that awareness of Parkinson's disease had recently increased following a public disclosure by Franklin Cudjoe that he had been living with the condition for several years. He said the disclosure had provided an opportunity for the Foundation to amplify education efforts, as many people living with the disease often concealed their condition due to stigma and fear of discrimination.
Mr. Jacobs-Bilson explained that Parkinson's disease was widely misunderstood, particularly in some communities where symptoms such as tremors were wrongly attributed to spiritual causes or superstition. He said such misconceptions had led to social exclusion and, in extreme cases, abuse of affected persons, stressing the need to 'medically debunk' those beliefs. He emphasised that the disease was a medical condition with treatment options, although it currently had no cure, and encouraged early diagnosis and access to appropriate care.
Mr. Jacobs-Bilson highlighted the importance of not only focusing on patients but also recognising the burden on caregivers, noting that the disease affected livelihoods and imposed emotional and economic strain on families. He said the cost of treatment remained a major challenge, indicating that common medications such as Levodopa could cost between GHS800 and GHS900 monthly, making it unaffordable for many patients. To address that, he said the Foundation was working to build partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and other stakeholders to subsidise medications and improve access.
On risk factors, Mr. Jacobs-Bilson identified ageing as the most significant, but noted with concern the increasing records of cases among younger people, including those in their 30s and 40s. He cited long-term exposure to certain pesticides, particularly Paraquat, as a contributing factor, noting that such chemicals had been linked to increased risk of Parkinson's disease. He said the Foundation would continue to prioritise education on symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options, while advocating improved care and support systems.
He urged the public to seek accurate information, support affected persons, and contribute to efforts to reducing stigma associated with neurological conditions. Mr. Jacobs-Bilson reaffirmed the Foundation's commitment to improving the quality of life of persons living with Parkinson's disease through advocacy, partnerships, and patient support initiatives.