According to a story from the 23andMe Blog, Reni Winter-Evans, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, understands that you don’t have to be a scientist to be a big part of critical medical research. In fact, you don’t even have to have a rare genetic mutation like she does. All it takes is a little time and effort to become a part of valuable scientific studies.
About Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a type of long term, progressive, degenerative illness that affects the central nervous system. Symptoms tend to develop over a period of years and primarily affect the movement ability and mental state of the patient. The cause of Parkinson’s disease remains a mystery, although there are a number of risk factors that have been identified. These factors include head injuries, pesticide exposure, and certain genetic variants and mutations. About 15 percent of patients have a close relative with the disease, suggesting some genetic connection. Symptoms include slowed movements, poor coordination, trouble walking, shaking, stiffness, abnormal posture, depression, anxiety, inhibited thinking, hallucinations, and dementia. Treatment may involve a number of medications, rehabilitation, and surgical operations. Survival rate varies, but most patients survive around a decade after getting diagnosed. To learn more about Parkinson’s disease, click here.
Reni’s Story
Reni’s perspective was changed forever when she took a 23andMe genetic test that revealed that she carried a genetic mutation that greatly increased her risk of getting Parkinson’s. This mutation is known as LRRK2 G2019s. Disease research has taken great interest in this mutation as medical researchers continue to search for a greater understanding of the origins of Parkinson’s disease. This realization immediately fueled her desire to pitch into medical research and she has joined close to twelve observational trials; but she doesn’t plan on stopping there.
Reni emphasizes that these observational trials present very little risk to the participants; they aren’t going to get any experimental drugs tested on them or endure any invasive examinations. In many cases, it is DNA that researchers need for progress to be made. Getting involved in these studies takes a little bit of time and effort, but it can be a great way to make a real difference.
