Tracking Parkinson’s study

Southampton General Hospital and Romsey Hospital are taking part in the largest ever study to find a cure for Parkinson’s disease. Both hospitals will play a major role in the Tracking Parkinson’s study.

The project was launched today by Parkinson’s UK and the charity need volunteers from Hampshire to take part. Anyone who has been diagnosed with the disease in the last three years, and those aged under 50 at the time of diagnosis are being urged to sign up (with their siblings) for this ground-breaking clinical study. In all, 3000 volunteers are needed.

The research in Hampshire will be coordinated by Southampton University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and led by Dr Helen Roberts, senior lecturer and consultant in geriatric medicine.

The study hopes to uncover biomarkers for Parkinson’s, such as indicators in the blood. These can then be detected with simple tests and it is hoped that earlier diagnosis and improved treatment  can then be achieved.

To find out more about taking part in the study, call  0808 800 0303