Dr FRANK NICKLASON
Helen Connor-Kendray from Parkinson’s Tasmania (Mercury 8/5) wrote about the link between pesticide exposure and risk of developing Parkinson’s disease (PD).
Why did this happen? is a frequently asked question by people affected by this chronic and progressive neurological disorder and by their friends and families.
If a member of an identical twin pair (over the age of 50 years) develops PD there is only a 5-8% risk that the other twin will develop PD as well. This of course suggests that there are other, non genetic, risk and protection factors involved.
In a review article (2006) on this subject which pooled information from all studies since 1983 on this subject the following conclusion was made; “From the epidemiological literature, there does seem to be a relatively consistent relationship between pesticide exposure and PD. This relationship is strongest for exposure to herbicides and insecticides and after long durations of exposure.”
The regulation and monitoring of pesticide use are so important for public well being and safety that there must be no possibility of political or commercial conflicts of interest in it’s administration.
The responsibility for water quality would sit better in the health portfolio rather than associated with primary industry.
Dr Frank Nicklason
West Hobart
