On November 29, World Movement Disorders Day was observed to raise awareness about neurological conditions that affect motor control. These disorders, which include Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, and dystonia, can severely disrupt daily life. The 2024 theme, “Fighting Stigma”, aims to challenge misconceptions and promote a deeper understanding of these often misunderstood conditions.
What Are Movement Disorders?
Movement disorders are neurological conditions that impact the brain’s ability to control movement. Symptoms can range from slow or stiff movements to involuntary shaking or jerking. Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and dystonia are common examples. However, movement disorders are not limited to motor symptoms alone. Non-motor symptoms, such as memory loss, mood changes, constipation, and even hallucinations, can significantly affect patients’ quality of life.
The causes of these disorders are varied, and in many cases, they remain unknown. Some are linked to brain degeneration, while others have genetic or environmental factors. Diagnosing these conditions can be difficult, as symptoms often develop gradually, and there’s no single test for many disorders. It’s important for individuals to seek care from specialists trained to diagnose and manage these complex conditions.
Increasing Prevalence and the Need for Awareness
In Australia, the prevalence of movement disorders is on the rise. Parkinson’s disease is now recognised as the fastest-growing brain disease, and the number of affected individuals is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. According to Parkinson’s Australia, around 100,000 Australians currently live with Parkinson’s disease, a number expected to grow by 30% over the next decade.
With this increasing prevalence, raising awareness about movement disorders is crucial. World Movement Disorders Day encourages people to share their experiences and educate others about the challenges faced by individuals living with these conditions. The #MoveDisorder campaign invites people to ask themselves, “What do you wish everyone knew about movement disorders?” and share their thoughts on social media.
Fighting Stigma
The stigma surrounding movement disorders often arises from a lack of understanding. Symptoms like tremors or difficulty walking may be wrongly associated with aging or weakness rather than neurological conditions. By fighting stigma and increasing awareness, we can ensure better support, better treatment options, and a more compassionate approach for those living with these complex disorders.
Join the conversation and help raise awareness for movement disorders. Together, we can make a difference.
References:
- Parkinson’s Australia. (2023). Parkinson’s Disease Statistics. www.parkinsons.org.au
- Movement Disorder Society. (2023). What Are Movement Disorders?. www.movementdisorders.org
