Understanding the public knowledge and awareness of parkinson's disease in Ireland: a cross-sectional survey.

Abstract

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder characterised by motor and non-motor symptoms that significantly impact quality of life (QoL). Despite its growing prevalence, public awareness and understanding of PD remain limited, contributing to stigma and social isolation. This study evaluates public knowledge and perceptions of PD across Ireland to identify educational gaps and inform public health initiatives.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to April 2024, using a modified version of existing questionnaires on PD knowledge. The survey was distributed online via social media platforms and charity networks, targeting adults residing in Ireland. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were employed to analyse the data. Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Queen's University Belfast (MHLS23_132).

Results: A total of 796 respondents completed the survey, predominantly female (83.4%) and aged 18-24 (31.7%). While 92.9% recognised PD as a neurological disorder, misconceptions about its classification persisted. Awareness of motor symptoms like tremor and bradykinesia was high, but non-motor symptoms such as chronic fatigue were less recognised. Only 42% were aware of available treatments, and 33.7% had encountered PD-related stigma. Social media emerged as the preferred platform for raising awareness, cited by 46.2% of participants.

Conclusion: The findings reveal critical knowledge gaps and stigma regarding PD, emphasising the need for targeted educational initiatives. Public health campaigns, particularly leveraging social media, are essential to enhance understanding, reduce misconceptions, and improve QoL for individuals with PD. By addressing awareness and encouraging a supportive environment, these initiatives can contribute to better public perception and management of PD.