Common chemical used to clean clothes may ‘increase risk’ of Parkinson’s disease, medics find | The Sun
A CLEANING chemical could be driving a rise in Parkinson’s cases, scientists warn.
Researchers say trichloroethylene can damage the brain and trigger the deadly condition, which affects around 145,000 Brits.
The chemical, also known as TCE, was used for decades in dry cleaning, degreasers, anaesthetics and pesticides.
Although now mostly banned in the UK, millions of people have likely been exposed to it and it is still used in some industries.
Parkinson’s UK says cases of the disease are on the rise and set to increase by a fifth between 2018 and 2025.
Celebs including boxer Muhammad Ali, Back to the Future star Michael J Fox, and comedian Billy Connolly, have all suffered.
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A study led by the University of Rochester in New York found seven patients who likely had Parkinson’s caused by trichloroethylene.
They included a doctor, electrical engineer, teacher, NBA basketball player, Navy captain and a US senator.
Each was exposed to the toxic chemical and later developed Parkinson’s disease, which causes shaking, nerve damage, weakness and memory problems.
Writing in the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease, Dr Ray Dorsey said: “Here we provide circumstantial evidence for TCE’s broader role in Parkinson’s Disease.
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“The cases depict individuals with the disease who were likely exposed to TCE through their environment or occupation.
“We call for greater research and banning of this century-old chemical that has caused immeasurable harm to the public’s health.”
It adds to previous studies suggesting the same link and animal research that saw the chemical trigger symptoms in rats and mice.
Scientists do not know how it causes damage but suggest TCE cripples vital mitochondria, which supply energy for brain cells.
This stops nerves functioning properly and can lead to long-term illness.
But the effects may not appear for years or even decades after someone is exposed.
Public Health England said TCE can cause cancer, lung or stomach irritation, or problems in the liver and kidneys over the long term.
PHE said in 2017: “The main use of trichloroethylene is in metal cleaning and degreasing.
“The general public may be exposed to very small amounts of trichloroethylene through exposure to contaminated air, drinking water or food.
“Those involved in the manufacture or use of trichloroethylene, particularly the degreasing industry, may be exposed to a much higher level than the general population.
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“However, safe limits are enforced to protect the employees.
“Such levels are below those that are thought to cause harmful effects.”
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