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

Research finds proximity to golf courses and water contamination in vulnerable areas strongly associated with higher odds of Parkinson's disease, though causation remains unproven.

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

  • Living within one mile of a golf course is associated with a 126% higher risk of Parkinson's disease compared to living more than six miles away.
  • The study revealed a distance-based dose response, with each additional mile beyond three miles reducing Parkinson's odds by 13%.
  • Residents in water service areas with golf courses face nearly double the risk of Parkinson’s, particularly in regions with vulnerable groundwater.
  • The findings suggest exposure to pesticides used on golf courses through both groundwater contamination and airborne drift as possible contributors.
  • Experts caution the study does not establish causation and highlights limitations, including reliance on residential proximity as a proxy for exposure.