How common is Parkinson's disease?

Discovery Health

An estimated 1.5 million Americans have Parkinson's, with an additional 60,000 diagnosed every year. Most people getting the disease are 60 or older, but approximately 15 percent are diagnosed before they reach 50.

Audrey K. Chun, MD on behalf of The Mount Sinai Health System

Geriatric Medicine

Nearly 1 million people in the United States are living with Parkinson's disease, and between 50,000 and 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, according to the National Parkinson's Foundation. Most cases occur in those over age 60.

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Parkinson's disease becomes more common with age. Below the age of 40, the disease is rare. But for those 80 years or older, there's a 10 percent chance to developing the condition. Up to one million residents of the United States have it, while there are roughly four million cases worldwide. Parkinson's is not common until late in life.

Nader Pouratian, MD on behalf of UCLA Health

Neurosurgery

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common movement disorder that accounts for tremor (behind essential tremor), and it’s also the second most common neurodegenerative disease that we see, second only to Alzheimer’s disease. About one to two percent of the population over the age of 65 has Parkinson’s disease, and it affects men more commonly than women. That’s in contrast to essential tremor, which tends to affect men and women equally.

Continue Learning about Parkinson's Disease

With the passing of boxing great Muhammad Ali, Parkinson’s disease has made a return to the national spotlight. The “Louisville Lip” lived with Parkin...

Nader Pouratian, MD

The mean age of onset for Parkinson’s disease is around 60. We do see a handful of patients who have...

Know the causes, symptoms and treatment of this nerve disorder.

Who Is Eligible for Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)?

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.