"Parkinson's Risk: Living Near Golf Course Raises Concerns"

New Research Reveals Surprising Link Between Living Near Golf Courses and Parkinson’s Risk

When you’re in the market for a new home, you might be looking for certain features like a solid foundation, updated appliances, or a safe neighborhood. But what about living close to a golf course? While it may seem like a dream for some, a recent study suggests that it could actually be linked to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

A team of researchers from various neurology departments, including the Mayo Clinic, conducted a study comparing patients newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease to matched controls from the Rochester Epidemiology Project spanning from 1991 to 2015. The findings, published in JAMA Network Open in May 2025, indicated a significant association between living near a golf course and the likelihood of developing Parkinson’s disease.

The study revealed some key findings:

• Individuals residing within one mile of a golf course were 126% more likely to be diagnosed with Parkinson’s compared to those living more than six miles away.
• Those living within water service areas with a golf course were nearly twice as likely to develop Parkinson’s compared to those in areas without a golf course, and 49% more likely than those with private wells.
• Residents in water service areas with a golf course located in “vulnerable groundwater regions” had an 82% higher risk of developing the disease compared to those in non-vulnerable groundwater regions.

The researchers suggest that the increased risk may be linked to pesticides used on golf courses. These chemicals could potentially contaminate water supplies or contribute to air pollution, leading to a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

Parkinson’s disease affects over one million Americans, a number projected to increase to 1.2 million by 2030, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. While genetics are known to play a role in the development of Parkinson’s, the potential impact of pesticides on the disease is still being investigated.

Common early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include anxiety, depression, mild tremors, slurred speech, and a lack of facial expression, as well as difficulty with automatic movements like blinking or swinging arms while walking, as outlined by the Mayo Clinic.

If you reside near a golf course and notice any concerning symptoms, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider. While more research is needed to fully understand the connection between living near golf courses and Parkinson’s risk, staying vigilant about changes in your health is crucial.

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The original article was published on The Healthy.