In February, the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) Northwest chapter hosted a panel discussion on gender differences in PD.  The webinar featured a panel of people with PD that included a neurologist, activist, writer, and podcaster.  The panel discussed how the effectiveness of PD treatment varies based on sex and gender, and the value in researching tailored treatment plans to men and women. 

In February, the Davis Phinney Foundation (DPF) hosted a session on managing pain in Parkinson’s disease (PD) with movement disorder specialist Dr. Jori Fleischer.  Pain disorders are a common under-recognized non-motor symptom of PD.  Dr. Fleischer discussed the different types of pain in PD and how to work with a doctor to manage pain.  Dr. Fleischer noted that pain is often not discussed in the exam room:  40% of people don’t mention it to their doctor because they may not know it’s relevant to PD.  This session was part of DPF’s Victory Summit virtual event.

In mid-February, the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) hosted a panel of researchers who gave updates on their areas of research and the value of research in Parkinson’s disease (PD).  Neurosurgeon Dr. Nicole Bentley and psychiatrist Dr. Daniel Weintraub reviewed deep brain stimulation techniques that improve cognitive symptoms.  Neurologist Dr. Mohammad Shahnawaz and movement disorder specialist Dr. David Standaert explored a blood test that can diagnose Parkinson’s disease.  Biochemist and person with PD Dr. Kevin McFarthing, explained the vital importance of PD research for those living with PD.