The former football star opens up about his recent diagnosis, shedding light on Parkinson’s disease and its impact.

Brett Favre, the former NFL star, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease more than a decade after retiring from football. During a congressional hearing on Tuesday, Favre shared the news of his diagnosis, bringing attention to the neurological condition. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, approximately 90,000 new cases of Parkinson’s are reported annually in the United States.

Here are some important points to know about the disease:

What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement control. It typically begins with tremors and progresses to symptoms such as slow movement, stiff limbs, difficulty with balance, a shuffling walk, and slurred speech.

Who is affected by Parkinson’s?
It is estimated that 1 million people in the U.S. and 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s. The disease typically manifests after the age of 60, although it can occasionally develop in individuals younger than 50.

What causes Parkinson’s disease?
The exact cause remains unclear, but Parkinson’s develops when dopamine-producing cells in the brain deteriorate. Dopamine is essential for transmitting signals that control movement, and a lack of it leads to the development of Parkinson’s symptoms. Genetic and environmental factors are thought to contribute to the disease. Studies have identified various gene mutations linked to Parkinson’s, with genetics believed to account for 10 to 15% of cases. Other potential risk factors include head trauma, exposure to pesticides and herbicides, and geographic location. Favre mentioned in 2022 that he might have sustained “thousands” of concussions during his 20-year NFL career.

Is there a cure?
Currently, there is no cure for Parkinson’s, but there are treatments that can help manage symptoms. Medications that regulate dopamine levels, as well as a surgically implanted device that blocks tremors, are available options. Physical and occupational therapy can also provide benefits to patients.

What is the prognosis for Parkinson’s patients?
Parkinson’s disease worsens over time, often slowly. The rate of progression and severity of symptoms varies among individuals. In advanced stages, people may become unable to walk or care for themselves. Cognitive issues such as memory loss and depression are also common. While Parkinson’s itself is not considered a fatal disease, complications such as respiratory issues—due to muscle weakness affecting swallowing and coughing—can lead to death.