From Our Special Correspondent

Daijiworld Media Network

Bengaluru, July 24: Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr K Sudhakar cautioned people about the rapid increase in Parkinson’s disease among people and warned that it was likely to increase 200 to 300% by 2030.

Speaking at the inaugural session of the virtual symposium organised by Kings College London in collaboration with Parkinson’s Research Alliance of India (PRAI) on Saturday, he said 350 to 400 people are being affected over 1 lac population in India.

``This will increase to 200-300% by 2030 and 1% of the total population will be affected by this disease. The symposium by KCL and PRAI will assist the research work on this,’’ he said.

NIMHANS has been recognized for its work on Neuro Degenerative diseases and will undertake research work on Parkinson’s disease in collaboration with other centres of PRAI.

``Our government will look forward to collaborate with KCL and PRAI to build an academic platform and train young researchers,’’ said the Minister.

He said: ``I congratulate Prof Ray and team for their research activities on Parkinson disease and Neuro degenerative disease. The joint work will help to create a common platform and to recruit skilled researchers in this field. Our government would also like to host the symposium in Bengaluru.’’

``I have fond memories of the prestigious Kings College London. I had played in the annual charity cricket match organised at KCL to raise funds for Parkinson’s, the Minister recalled.