Media Release
Date: 11 April 2023
RUH researchers appeal for more volunteers for Parkinson’s trials
On World Parkinson’s Day (Tuesday 11 April) researchers at the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust are appealing for more people to volunteer to take part in vital studies into the complex condition.
Parkinson’s disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over the years leading to a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms, including involuntary shaking of parts of the body, slow movement and stiff muscles.
While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease there are treatments available that aim to reduce symptoms and help people to maintain their quality of life.
RUH Research Nurse Ruth Hamlin said: “The treatments and medications for Parkinson’s disease which are in use today are the result of previous research trials, which shows how important these studies are in tackling conditions like this.
“We find that people who do volunteer for trials get a lot of satisfaction from knowing they are contributing to the discovery of what could be really vital treatments for people with their condition.”
There is still time to sign up to the Chief PD trial at the RUH, which is exploring whether medication can help to reduce the number of falls that people with Parkinson’s experience.
Another trial set to begin at the RUH soon will be recruiting people living with Parkinson’s who experience hallucinations.
The RUH is also recruiting to a study for people with conditions associated with Parkinson’s disease such as progressive supranuclear palsy – a rare neurological condition that can cause problems with balance, movement, vision and speech.
Research Physiotherapist Emily Graham said: “We run a lot of studies looking at various aspects of Parkinson’s disease and while some studies do require people to attend the hospital, others can be done from home, which we know can be very helpful for people with movement difficulties. “Research is vital in shaping future treatments in all areas of healthcare, so if you have Parkinson’s and would like to be part of one of our studies, please get in touch and we can discuss the trials that we have available for you to take part in.”
To volunteer for a Parkinson’s research trial at the RUH please
email ruhtr.researchopu@nhs.net
or
call 01225 825797.
You can find lots more information and advice about Parkinson’s disease and research on the Parkinson’s UK website: www.parkinsons.org.uk
ENDS