Bipolar Disorder Linked to Higher Parkinson's Risk and Vice Versa
A new study suggests bipolar disorder may increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease, and Parkinson’s may also raise the risk of bipolar disorder. Previous research had only shown one direction of risk.
This matters for people with either condition; the evidence comes from a study analyzing health records.
Study design and population
The study used health records from over 100,000 individuals, comparing those with bipolar disorder and Parkinson’s disease to those without either condition.
Findings on risk direction
Researchers found that having bipolar disorder was associated with a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s, and having Parkinson’s was linked to a higher risk of bipolar disorder.
Common questions
Does this study prove that bipolar disorder causes Parkinson’s?
No, the study shows an association, not a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
What does this mean for people with bipolar disorder?
It suggests they may have a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, but more research is needed to understand the connection.
Sources
- Bipolar Disorder and Parkinson’s Disease: Which Comes First? Medscape · medscape.com
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