​Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder; more specifically, it is neurodegenerative.  Parkinson’s disease is also often talked about in terms of being a movement disorder, as it causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.

Symptoms generally progress over time, and include difficulty walking and talking, and may include mental and behavioral changes, sleep problems, depression, memory difficulties, and fatigue.

The Maryland Department of Health was directed by the Maryland Gene​ral Assembly to establish the Parkinson’s Disease Registry Advisory Committee, whose task is to examine and advise on the potential of a registry.  Also included in Chapter 383 (Acts of 2023) is a directive to provide annual data on incidences of Parkinson’s disease in the State, which should include certain demographic information and regional location.  This data will be available in late October 2023.​

Maryland Prevalence Data (coming soon)