The “Parkinson’s Belt”: Why the Midwest Faces a Higher Risk

When people think of geographic health patterns, they often picture the Stroke Belt in the South or the Diabetes Belt across parts of the Southeast and Appalachia. But emerging data suggests another pattern worth paying attention to — an area with higher-than-average rates of Parkinson’s disease, often referred to as the “Parkinson’s Belt.” And surprisingly, it stretches right through America’s Midwest.

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, coordination, and often mood and cognition. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine — a key chemical messenger — begin to die off. Symptoms often include:

• Tremors

• Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)

• Stiffness or rigidity

• Difficulty with balance

• Changes in speech or facial expression

There is no cure, but many treatments — from medication to physical therapy — can help manage symptoms.

The Midwest and Parkinson’s: What the Data Shows

Recent studies and CDC data have shown that states in the Midwest and Great Lakes region — including Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and parts of Pennsylvania and Minnesota — have elevated Parkinson’s disease rates compared to the national average.

This has led some researchers and health advocates to refer to this region informally as a “Parkinson’s Belt.”

Why Might Parkinson’s Be More Common in the Midwest?

There is no single cause of Parkinson’s disease, but several environmental and genetic risk factors have been identified. The higher incidence in the Midwest may be linked to a combination of the following:

1. Agricultural Pesticides

Much of the Midwest is farmland. Long-term exposure to pesticides and herbicides, like paraquat and rotenone, has been strongly associated with increased Parkinson’s risk. These chemicals can interfere with mitochondrial function in neurons.

2. Industrial and Environmental Toxins

Historical use of industrial solvents and heavy metals in certain Midwestern manufacturing areas may contribute to long-term neurotoxic exposure.

3. Aging Population

States like Ohio, Wisconsin, and Michigan have aging populations, and Parkinson’s risk increases with age — particularly after 60.

4. Better Diagnosis and Awareness

Higher rates could also reflect better access to neurology services and greater diagnostic awareness in urban centers like Chicago, Cleveland, and Minneapolis.

What Should Midwesterners Know?

If you live in the Midwest, you should know that increased risk doesn’t mean inevitability. But awareness matters.

Here’s what you can do:

• Know the early signs: Changes in handwriting, soft voice, or tremors may be early clues.

• Protect your brain health: Diets rich in antioxidants (e.g., Mediterranean diet) and regular exercise support neural function.

  Limit exposure to toxins: If you work in agriculture or industry, take precautions with protective equipment.

• See a neurologist early: If you or a loved one notice symptoms, early intervention can significantly improve quality of life.
  

🧭 Closing Thoughts

While the idea of a “Parkinson’s Belt” isn’t officially recognized like the Stroke Belt, it points to an important public health reality: where you live may influence your neurological health. For Midwesterners, especially those in farming or industrial communities, understanding Parkinson’s disease — and how to reduce risk or catch it early — is vital.

With increased research, awareness, and access to care, we can turn the tide on this deeply personal disease.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment, or questions regarding any medical condition.