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The National Alliance for Hispanic Health and Parkinson's Foundation: A Collaborative Effort for 2025 Parkinson's Awareness Month

April is designated as Parkinson's Awareness Month, and in 2025, this campaign is set to make a significant impact within Hispanic communities across the United States. The National Alliance for Hispanic Health (the Alliance) has partnered with the Parkinson's Foundation to raise awareness about Parkinson's disease (PD) and provide essential resources tailored to the Hispanic population. This collaboration aims to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with Parkinson's disease in these communities.

The Engagement of PAM: Your Guide to Parkinson's Awareness Month

Central to this year's campaign is a character named PAM, who embodies the mission of spreading knowledge about Parkinson's disease. PAM serves as an engaging guide, sharing vital information, personal stories, and expert insights throughout the month. This initiative highlights the importance of awareness, education, and support for those affected by PD.

Understanding the Landscape: The Hispanic Population and Parkinson's Disease

According to the 2022 U.S. Census, nearly 20% of the U.S. population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, amounting to 63.6 million individuals. Despite this substantial demographic presence, reports indicate that Hispanic and Latino individuals with Parkinson's disease face higher rates of early-onset Parkinson's disease (EOPD), inadequate symptom management, and limited access to quality healthcare compared to their non-Hispanic white counterparts. This reality underscores the urgent need for culturally-specific resources and healthcare access.

Bridging Gaps in Care and Research

The partnership between the National Alliance for Hispanic Health and the Parkinson's Foundation is dedicated to bridging these critical gaps. Key initiatives include:

• - Expansion of Spanish-language resources: Parkinson.org/Espanol will serve as a vital resource hub. It offers access to the Parkinson's disease library, blog posts, virtual programs, and an array of important educational materials tailored to Spanish-speaking individuals.

• - Encouraging research participation: One goal of this collaboration is to enhance the representation of Hispanic and Latino individuals in clinical studies. Increasing research participation will generate more inclusive data and drive better outcomes for these communities.

• - Direct support services: The Parkinson's Foundation operates a Helpline, which can provide expert guidance and referrals. The service includes a dedicated Spanish option (1-800-4PD-INFO, option 3) to ensure that language is not a barrier to care. Additionally, the National Hispanic Family Health Helpline (1-866-783-2645 or 1-866-SuFamilia) offers further assistance.

• - Culturally relevant fitness and wellness programs: The campaign also focuses on promoting health and wellness through platforms like EP Salud En Casa, which provides tailored exercise videos and educational sessions specific to Parkinson's disease.

Educating and Engaging: The Role of PAM

Throughout April, PAM will guide various discussions and topics related to Parkinson's disease. Key themes include:

• - Identifying early symptoms of PD: Understanding early signs can empower individuals to seek timely medical attention.
• - Exploring disease progression and treatment options: Knowledge about PD can lead to informed decisions regarding treatment and care.
• - Finding community support resources: Caregivers and patients alike will learn about available community resources that can provide encouragement and assistance.
• - Highlighting advocacy and research initiatives: Participants will be informed about current research efforts and advocacy campaigns aimed at improving conditions for those with PD.

The campaign will direct individuals to the central hub at Parkinson.org/Awareness for English speakers and Parkinson.org/Concientizacion for Spanish speakers, where they can follow PAM’s journey through weekly social media videos featuring important information in both languages.

A Call to Action: Get Involved

The National Alliance for Hispanic Health and the Parkinson's Foundation encourage individuals, caregivers, healthcare providers, and advocates to participate in this important movement during Parkinson's Awareness Month. By visiting Parkinson.org/Awareness, individuals can explore resources, join events, and learn how to enhance healthcare access for those affected by Parkinson's disease.

About the Organizations

The National Alliance for Hispanic Health is a scientific authority on the health of Hispanics in the U.S., striving to achieve optimal health for all. For more details, visit www.healthyamericas.org.

The Parkinson's Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of those impacted by Parkinson's disease and advancing research for a cure. The foundation emphasizes the importance of community involvement and support.

Together, these organizations are committed to fostering awareness, enhancing education, and ensuring that the Hispanic community receives the care and support they deserve.