The Anyidaso Parkinson’s Disease Foundation on Saturday held a community cycling event in Accra to mark this year’s World Parkinson’s Awareness Day.

The event was held on the theme: ‘Moving Together for Hope.’

The 24-kilometre ride attracted several cycling groups, such as Pedals for Parkinson, the Gladiators, and the Ghana Cycling Federation, among others. Life Healthcare also provided free medical screening for participants.

The other supporting organisations included Bel-AQUA, GB Foods, Roche, the Neurology Society of Ghana, and the Blow-up Group of Companies.

Speaking after the event, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Anyidaso Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, Dr Vida Obese, called for increased support to create more awareness of the disease.

According to her, April 11 has been designated as World Parkinson’s Day to promote advocacy and educate the public on the symptoms and early signs of the disease, as well as to erase the stigma and misconceptions associated with it.

Dr Obese urged persons living with the disease to seek early treatment and adhere strictly to their medication in order to live normal lives.

The Executive Secretary of the Foundation, Mr Andrew Jacobs Bilson, stated that the time had come to dispel misconceptions about the disease, stressing that it was neither spiritual nor a result of bad omen or possession.

He indicated that although the disease was commonly associated with ageing, some individuals in their 30s had begun showing symptoms, suggesting that it could affect people of all ages, particularly those exposed to certain agrochemicals.

Mr Bilson advised individuals experiencing symptoms such as slowness of movement or tremors to seek early diagnosis and treatment to support rehabilitation, noting that recovery could take time.

He added that the cost of medication remained a major challenge, with monthly treatment ranging between GH¢8 and GH¢900, which could be burdensome for the average Ghanaian worker.

Mr Bilson further called for stronger collaboration with benevolent organisations to support persons living with the disease.

The Chief Executive Officer of IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, Mr Franklin Cudjoe, who was the special guest, cautioned individuals with Parkinson’s disease to avoid certain lifestyles and exposure to toxic substances to prevent further complications, noting that the condition affects the brain and can spread to other parts of the body.