In a recent interview, British journalist and broadcaster Jeremy Paxman revealed that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after a doctor noticed him on TV.

Parkinson’s disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years. The three main symptoms of the condition are involuntary shaking of particular parts of the body, known as tremors, slow movement, and stiff and inflexible muscles.

Paxman said that he first noticed something was wrong when he started to find it difficult to button his shirts. He also said that his wife had commented on his loss of “physical exuberance” while presenting the long-running show, University Challenge.

Paxman went to see his doctor, who referred him to a neurologist. After a series of tests, Paxman was given the diagnosis. He has since been treated with medication and physiotherapy, which has helped improve his symptoms.

While Parkinson’s can be a debilitating condition, many people live well with it for many years. With treatment and support, most people with Parkinson’s are able to maintain a good quality of life.

It is inspiring to hear how Jeremy Paxman has coped with his diagnosis and is continuing to live his life to the fullest despite his challenges. If you or someone you know is showing signs of Parkinson’s disease, we would always advise you seek medical advice.

There is no cure yet and this is why research is essential.

Play Your Part in Early Parkinson’s Disease

As 1 of only 6 study sites in the U.K. we welcome patients to our world class facility from across Scotland who may be suitable to take part in the Orchestra clinical research study for men and women with early-stage Parkinson’s disease.

This is the first of our current studies which is suitable for those with Parkinson’s. If you are interested in taking part or know someone who might be, there are several criteria to meet in order to join the Orchestra Study:

• Aged 40–75 years
• Have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the past 2 years
• Experience slowness of movement and at least one of the following:
• Muscle stiffness/rigidity
• Tremor/shaking

Have not taken any medications to treat Parkinson’s disease motor symptoms (symptoms related to movement) and are not expected to need any such medications in the next 6 months.

Learn more about the Orchestra study and the opportunity to help clinical research into early-stage Parkinson’s disease. If you meet the above criteria and would like to register to take part in this exciting new study into Parkinson’s disease, you can take a pre-screener here.

If you qualify, one of our patient liaison team will follow up to discuss the study in detail, any additional criteria required and confirm whether you are suitable to take part.

Alternatively, if you would prefer to speak with someone to apply, please call us on 0141 948 0206  and one of our friendly patient liaison team will be happy to discuss the criteria requirements with you and answer any questions.

Jeremy Paxman opens up about his life with Parkinson’s tonight in a one-off documentary – Putting Up with Parkinson’s – 9pm on STV.