Researchers have discovered several genes that are associated with the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease (PD). To better understand this relationship, the Parkinson’s Foundation is conducting a large population study, PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson’s Disease, a national initiative that offers genetic testing and counseling for Parkinson's-related genes at no cost for people with PD. Since different ethnic groups may have differences in their genetic backgrounds, possibly affecting the course of their disease, PD GENEration is now expanding beyond the borders of the mainland U.S. to Hispanic communities in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

 

Our guest in this episode is Rebeca De Leon, Associate Director of the Clinical Research Department at the Parkinson’s Foundation. She explains why it is important to include people of diverse backgrounds in the study, how and where the Foundation is reaching out to enroll people from a range of communities in PD GENEration, and ultimately, how participation in the study will help scientists better understand the disease.