Our Focus

Since its discovery in 1817 by Dr. James Parkinson, symptomatic treatment of the disease has progressed, but the cause-and-cure-remains unknown. The Parkinson's Disease Research Society (PDRS) was formed in 1996 with the mission of curing Parkinson's disease in our lifetime. The PDRS is dedicated to eradication of the disease through basic science and clinical research into the causes, improved clinical care, and ultimately, the cure of this debilitating condition. We thank those of you who have made contributions. It is people like you that keep us motivated and hope that you will continue to provide necessary support.

Our primary focus is:

• Identifying the cause of Parkinson's disease through laboratory and clinical research.
• Improving clinical care through the investigation of new drug therapies and surgical techniques.
• Developing diagnostic tools for early identification of Parkinson's patients.
• Educating health professionals, patients, families and the general public regarding research findings.
  

Our Mission Statement

Our knowledge regarding the precise nature and treatment of Parkinson's disease has progressed only a modest degree since 1817 when Dr. James Parkinson wrote his original essay, entitled the Shaking Palsy, where he described the disease entity that now bears his name. Parkinson's disease is a chronic, progressive, neurodegenerative disorder in which the cause remains unknown. Approximately one million people in the United States suffer from Parkinson's disease and one percent of the population over the age of 50 is expected to develop this disease in their lifetime. Both men and women are equally affected. They symptoms of Parkinson's disease (tremor, rigidity, slowness of movement, and loss of postural stability are thought to result from a loss of dopamine in the brain. Medications that increase dopamine activity in the brain only treat the symptoms of the disease temporarily while the course of the disease remains progressive and relentless. Ultimately, Parkinson's disease can render the individual partially or totally disabled. While the cost to society is enormous, the suffering of the individual and family is even more tragic.

Clearly, the lack of progress regarding Parkinson's disease mandates a concerted effort to begin the research that will result in unequivocal advancements in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Parkinson's disease. It is for these reasons that the Parkinson's Disease Research Society is now established.

Together, we will face this challenge and find a cure through Treatment, Education and Research.

Parkinson's Disease Research Society
Glenbrook Hospital - Division of Neurology

2100 Pfingsten Road, Suite B205-A
Glenview, IL 60026