Sex and Gender Differences in Parkinson's Disease

Neurol Clin. 2023 May;41(2):371-379. doi: 10.1016/j.ncl.2022.12.001. Epub 2023 Feb 19.

Abstract

The lower prevalence of Parkinson disease (PD) in females is not well understood but may be partially explained by sex differences in nigrostriatal circuitry and possible neuroprotective effects of estrogen. PD motor and nonmotor symptoms differ between sexes, and women experience disparities in care including undertreatment with DBS and less access to caregiving. Our knowledge about PD in gender diverse individuals is limited. Future studies should improve our understanding of the role of hormone replacement therapy in PD, address gender-based inequities in PD care and expand our understanding of PD in SGM and marginalized communities.

Keywords: Disparities; Gender; Movement disorders; Parkinson's disease; Sex.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Parkinson Disease* / epidemiology
  • Parkinson Disease* / therapy
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Sex Factors