President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe has called for intensified public education and support for persons living with Parkinson’s disease, citing stigma, high treatment costs and limited awareness as major challenges.
He made the call at the 2026 edition of “Pedal for Parkinson’s,” a community cycling event organised by the Anidaso Parkinson’s Disease Foundation to mark World Parkinson’s Disease Day in Accra.
The event, held on the theme “Moving Together for Hope,” aimed at raising awareness of Parkinson’s disease and featured 25-kilometre and 5-kilometre rides, as well as a virtual participation option.
It was organised in collaboration with partners, including Yenko Mobility, Ghana Cycling Federation and Gladiators Cycling Club.
Franklin Cudjoe, sharing his experience of living with a degenerative neurological condition, said Parkinson’s disease affected brain function, particularly dopamine production, resulting in symptoms such as tremors, stiffness and impaired movement.
He noted that while a small proportion of cases were hereditary, many were linked to environmental factors, including exposure to harmful chemicals.
According to the IMANI President, the condition, though manageable with medication, remained incurable and progressively worsened over time, requiring strict adherence to treatment routines and regular exercise.
He highlighted the high cost of treatment, explaining that weekly medication and advanced surgical interventions were beyond the reach of many patients.
He expressed concern about stigma associated with the condition, stating that sufferers were often misunderstood and sometimes perceived as intoxicated or mentally unstable.
He noted that misconceptions, even among some health professionals, delayed diagnosis and care, and called for intensified public education to reduce discrimination.
He encouraged patients to speak openly about their experiences to promote early detection and timely medical intervention.
According to him, Parkinson’s disease affected persons across all social classes, citing global figures such as Muhammad Ali and Michael J. Fox.
He called for strengthened support systems, including improved access to treatment and community-based care, to enhance the quality of life of patients.
He emphasised that increased public engagement and sustained advocacy were critical to addressing the growing burden of neurological conditions in society.
