SNF - ParkImpuls
This project focuses on Impulse Control and Related Behavioral Disorders (ICBDs) in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Our aim is to enhance awareness, provide education for patients, their caregivers and the general public and therefore assist to mitigate the associated shame and stigma linked to these behavioral disorders. PD, the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disease, is primarily acknowledged for its motor symptoms. However, non-motor symptoms, and in particular neuropsychiatric symptoms can have at least as much impact on patient’s quality of life. Recent studies indicate that the prevalence of ICBDs in individuals with Parkinson’s undergoing dopaminergic treatment is as high as 30%, contributing to shame and stigmatization. ICBDs encompass impulsive behaviors such as pathological gambling, shopping, eating, and hypersexuality, as well as compulsive disorders like addiction to antiparkinsonian drugs and punding, involving complex stereotyped behaviors. Despite their high prevalence, these behaviors are inadequately recognized not only in the general population but also by treating physicians and often concealed by those affected by it. These alterations in personality and individual behaviors profoundly affect patients’ lives and those of their caregivers, emphasizing the need for increased public awareness.