Publication
Interacting risk factors for impulse control behaviours in de novo Parkinson's disease
Up to 45% of patients with Parkinson's disease experience impulse control disorders, characterised by a loss of voluntary control over impulses, drives or temptations. This study aimed to investigate whether previously identified genetic and psychiatric risk factors interact towards the development of impulse control disorders in Parkinson's disease
- Author
- Marit F. L. Ruitenberg, Emma Whooley, Vincent Koppelmans, Hayley J. MacDonald and Alison Hall
- Date
- 28 January 2025
- Links
- The British Psychological Society
Although Parkinson's disease is known to most people mainly for its characteristic and visible motor problems, many people with Parkinson's also experience several non-motor problems that are less known and visible. One example are so-called impulse control problems, which can manifest as excessive impulsive behaviour such as excessive gambling, shopping, or eating.
We know from previous research that certain types of medication increase the risk of these problems and that factors such as anxiety, depression and certain genetic components play a role in their onset. So far, however, these factors have always been studied separately. In this new study, we show that the combination of psychiatric and genetic risk factors further increases the risk of impulse control problems. This suggests that early recognition of anxiety symptoms and genetic testing may be of great importance to help patients before they develop severe impulse control problems.
Read the full publication through The British Psychological Society.