New book will raise awareness on disease

Families and carers of the estimated 1,400 people in Malta suffering from Parkinson’s disease can learn more about the degenerative condition from new information booklet published in Maltese.

Launched yesterday by the Malta Parkinson’s Disease Association, its president Anne Downing explained how the 92-page booklet matched up to the exacting standards of the European Parkinson Disease Association.

The booklet provides comprehensive information about the wide-ranging aspects of the disease, in simple and clear terms, including how it affects sufferers’ daily lives.

It is estimated that around 1,400 people in Malta suffer from Parkinson’s disease – the majority are Maltese but there are many Britons.

Parkinson’s is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system and the most obvious symptoms are movement-related, including shaking, rigidity, slowness of movement and difficulty with walking and gait.

Later, cognitive and behavioural problems may arise, with dementia commonly occurring in the advanced stages of the disease. Most cases occur after the age of 50.

For more information or copies of the booklet, contact the association on 2146 2196 or maltaparkinsons@onvol.net.