В Нигерии растет число молодых пациентов с болезнью Паркинсона

Health Follow Us on Google August 13, 2026 by Chinyere Okoroafor ‘Number of younger Nigerians diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease rising’ Experts have raised concerns over the growing number of younger Nigerians being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, urging governments at all levels to strengthen specialist neurological services, improve access to affordable treatment and tackle widespread misconceptions that continue to delay diagnosis. The call was made during the yearly #Move4PD Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Walk organised by the Adewunmi Desalu Parkinson’s Foundation (ADPF) in Surulere, Lagos. The event, themed “No One Walks Alone: Courage in Every Step,” brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, caregivers and people living with Parkinson’s disease to advocate greater public awareness and government support. Founder/Chairperson of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees(BoT), Mrs. Omorinsojo Desalu, said Parkinson’s disease is no longer confined to older adults, noting that the Foundation is treating more patients in their 20s, 30s and 40s. “Our youngest patient is under 30. We see women in their 40s, men in their 40s and even younger adults. Parkinson’s is becoming a disease we can no longer associate only with old age,” she said. Desalu described Parkinson’s as the world’s fastest-growing neurodegenerative disease and urged governments to invest in early diagnosis, neurological services, rehabilitation and continuous training for healthcare workers. Read Also: SPE pushes for oil industry policy certainty, cheaper capital She also decried persistent myths linking the condition to witchcraft or spiritual attacks, saying such misconceptions fuel stigma and discourage patients from seeking timely medical care. “There is still stigma. Many people believe it is a spiritual attack, but Parkinson’s is a disease of the brain. Early diagnosis and treatment enable patients to live productive lives for many years,” she said. Provost, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Prof. Ademola Oremosu, called for increased funding for research, specialist care and public education, stressing that people living with Parkinson’s deserve sustained support rather than neglect. A physiotherapist with the Foundation, Mrs. Titilayo Ojo, said the organisation provides support, physiotherapy, speech therapy, counselling and other rehabilitation services, urging Nigerians to seek medical attention early if they notice symptoms such as persistent hand tremors, slow movement, stooped posture or difficulty walking. The Foundation also unveiled its 2024–2025 impact report, highlighting expanded rehabilitation, advocacy and community support programmes for people living with Parkinson’s disease across Nigeria. 📢 ADVERTISEMENT DISCLAIMER: Links above are sponsored posts. The Nation assumes no liability or responsibility for the claims, products, or services offered by third-party advertisers. Proceed with discretion. Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Nation Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline — join now! Join The Nation Channel Get instant breaking news and exclusive updates right on your feed! Subscribe to The Nation Newspaper Telegram channel and never miss a headline. Join The Nation on Telegram