Investigating racial differences in Parkinson's disease symptoms and care

Racial Disparities in Parkinson Disease- Clinical Phenotype, Management and Genetics

['FUNDING_R01'] · RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11070358

This study is looking at how Parkinson's disease affects Black people differently than White people, aiming to understand their symptoms and treatment options better, and it’s for anyone with Parkinson's who wants to help improve care for their community.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11070358 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how Parkinson's disease (PD) affects Black individuals compared to White individuals. It aims to explore the symptoms, management, and genetic factors associated with PD in Black populations, who may experience more severe symptoms and fewer treatment options. The study will involve 600 participants across seven sites in the U.S., assessing their motor and non-motor symptoms, quality of life, and treatment management. Additionally, the research will develop clinical guidelines and educational programs to improve care and self-management for Black patients with PD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include Black individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are not of African descent or those without a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of Parkinson's disease in Black patients, ultimately enhancing their quality of care.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated significant health disparities in Parkinson's disease among different racial groups, suggesting that this research could build on existing findings.

Where this research is happening

CHICAGO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.