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Study Links Living Near Golf Courses to Increased Parkinson’s Risk

Research finds a 126% higher likelihood of Parkinson’s disease for residents within one mile of golf courses, with groundwater vulnerability amplifying the risk.

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A golfer hitting golf ball along fairway with iron driver.
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Overview

  • A population-based study published in JAMA Network Open reports a strong association between living near golf courses and higher odds of Parkinson’s disease.
  • Residents within one mile of a golf course face a 126% increased risk of Parkinson’s compared to those living over six miles away, with the risk decreasing by 13% for each mile farther beyond three miles.
  • People in water service areas with a golf course had nearly double the odds of Parkinson’s, with the risk rising 82% further in groundwater-vulnerable regions.
  • Researchers emphasize that the findings show correlation, not causation, and highlight the need for further investigation into pesticide exposure through water and air pathways.
  • Experts call for stricter pesticide regulations and expanded studies to address limitations, including the lack of direct testing for contamination and control for other environmental factors.