Parkinson’s cases are rising. Dr. Ray Dorsey says our environment is a big reason why. In “The Parkinson’s Plan,” Dorsey and co-author Dr. Michael Okun argue that modifiable environmental exposures are fueling the disease, and they outline practical steps to reduce risk and improve treatment.

Dorsey is a professor of neurology at the University of Rochester and a public health advocate focused on eliminating toxic exposures linked to neurodegenerative disease. A co-author of “Ending Parkinson’s Disease,” he has testified before Congress, advised the World Health Organization and was recognized by the White House as a Champion for Change. He also serves as the founding director of the Center for the Brain & Environment at Atria Health and Research Institute.

In this conversation with Being Patient founder Deborah Kan, Dorsey explains why most Parkinson’s cases appear to be driven more by environmental chemicals than by genes, and what that means for prevention. He outlines practical steps — from reducing pesticide and solvent exposure to filtering water and air — alongside evidence-backed habits like vigorous exercise and getting specialist care. 

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Being Patient is an editorially independent journalism outlet for news and reporting about brain health, cognitive science, and neurodegenerative diseases. In our Live Talk series on Facebook, former Wall Street Journal Editor and founder of Being Patient, Deborah Kan, interviews brain health experts and people living with dementia. 

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