A study led by researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre found that people with a history of damage to the lining of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract have a 76% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

This study supports the “gut-first” hypothesis, proposing that Parkinson’s may originate in the gut before affecting the brain.

The research highlights how conditions like Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID) use may increase the risk of this neurodegenerative disorder, and people with upper GI damage had a history of smoking, constipation, and dysphagia. The findings suggest that heightened monitoring for Parkinson’s symptoms in individuals with upper GI damage may be necessary.

You can see more information about the research on the Neuroscience News article here.