Addressing Racial Disparities in Parkinson's Exercise Programs: the Urgent Need for Inclusivity

A recent report published by a prominent health organization has brought to light a concerning disparity in participation rates in Parkinson's exercise programs in the United States. The report revealed that while a significant number of white individuals are engaging in these programs, there is a notable underrepresentation of Black participants. 

Diversity Challenges in Parkinson's Exercise Programs

The organizers of one of the largest U.S. exercise programs for people with Parkinson’s found that the majority of participants were white, prompting concerns about inclusivity and access for minority communities. Efforts to address this imbalance have been somewhat successful in engaging Hispanic and ethnically Chinese communities, but have encountered challenges in effectively recruiting Black individuals. 

The Vital Role of Exercise in Parkinson's Treatment

Exercise is widely recognized as a fundamental component of Parkinson's disease treatment, with studies demonstrating its ability to alleviate symptoms and improve mobility, flexibility, and balance. In fact, research has suggested that exercise can lead to positive changes in the brain, promoting the growth of dopamine-producing neurons that are typically impacted by the disease. The potential benefits of exercise in managing Parkinson's have been underscored by a recent paradigm shift in which exercise is being advocated as a form of individually prescribed medicine for those in the early stages of the condition. 

Challenges in Engaging the Black Community

Despite the compelling case for the importance of exercise in managing Parkinson's, organizations and initiatives targeting the Black community have encountered significant obstacles in increasing participation rates. For example, a Chicago-based program offering a free six-month exercise initiative specifically struggled to gain traction among Black individuals, even after ramping up marketing efforts within the community. This difficulty has been attributed, in part, to a lack of awareness about Parkinson's within the Black population, as well as historical underrepresentation in research and healthcare settings. Studies have shown that Black individuals are less likely to receive a Parkinson's diagnosis, with some attributing this to healthcare provider bias. Biases in diagnosis have been linked to the misinterpretation of symptoms, with Black individuals experiencing potential symptoms of Parkinson's being perceived differently than their white counterparts. This disparity in diagnosis underscores the broader issue of racial bias in healthcare settings, as highlighted by findings that a substantial proportion of Black adults report experiencing unfair treatment and disrespect from healthcare providers due to their race or ethnicity. Additionally, concerns around privacy, pride, and fear of repercussions in the workplace have been identified as barriers preventing Black individuals from seeking a diagnosis and participating in exercise programs. 

Building Trust and Overcoming Barriers

Recognizing the significance of representation and trust in engaging the Black community, healthcare professionals and advocates have emphasized the importance of having Black individuals in leadership and recruitment roles within Parkinson's education and exercise programs. By fostering a sense of shared experience and understanding, Black leaders have the potential to mitigate mistrust and cultivate a more inclusive environment for those affected by Parkinson's. 

Empowering Underserved Communities

In an effort to address the funding and decision-making dynamics that may impede the establishment of Parkinson's programs in underserved communities, the Mark Morris Dance Group is actively raising funds to provide microgrants to organizations serving these populations. By empowering these groups to develop and oversee their own programs, there is a recognition of the need for financial autonomy and self-determination in promoting access to Parkinson's exercise initiatives.