Frailty can refer to a reduction in physical function, and its attributes – including a slow walking speed and weak grip – are commonly experienced by people with Parkinson’s.
Until now, there has been limited insight into the link between frailty and the risk of developing the condition over time. This is what led researchers at the Huazhong University of Science and Technology in China to analyse data from a large UK study, which was gathered over a 12-year period.
Published in JAMA Neurology, the analysis found that frailty may be linked to an 87% higher risk of developing the condition.
Commenting on the results, the researchers said: “These findings indicate that physical frailty is a potential risk factor for [Parkinson’s], and the assessment and management of frailty might have clinical significance in the at-risk population.”
