Former President Donald Trump has often pointed to his frequent golf wins as proof of good health, even noting his performance during his last physical, which described him as being in “excellent health.”
However, a new study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that living close to golf courses — one of Trump’s favorite pastimes — may come with hidden health risks, particularly an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease.
The study found that people living within one mile of a golf course faced a 126% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s compared to those living more than six miles away. The risk remained elevated up to three miles from a course, though it gradually declined with distance.
Researchers believe this may be linked to exposure to pesticides used to maintain golf courses. These chemicals can enter the air or seep into groundwater, posing a potential health hazard to nearby residents.
The risk was especially high for people who rely on groundwater for drinking, particularly in areas where contamination is more likely.
Trump does not currently live within a mile of a golf course, but Mar-a-Lago, his Florida residence, is located about three miles from the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach. He also frequents golf properties in New Jersey and Scotland.
It’s important to note the study shows an association, not a direct cause-and-effect link, between living near golf courses and Parkinson’s disease. But the results are consistent with past studies that have raised concerns about pesticide exposure.
“Many studies around the world have looked at whether pesticides increase the risk of Parkinson’s,” said Katherine Fletcher of Parkinson’s UK. “The results vary, but overall suggest exposure may raise the risk. However, the evidence isn’t strong enough to prove a direct cause.”
About 1.1 million Americans are estimated to be living with Parkinson’s disease. There is currently no cure, but new treatments continue to emerge.
Recent research has shown promising results for psilocybin — the psychedelic compound found in “magic mushrooms” — in improving mood and motor symptoms in Parkinson’s patients. A drug called Tavapadon, which targets brain receptors that mimic dopamine, has shown effectiveness in clinical trials with fewer side effects than older treatments.
Another therapy, Produodopa, involves a continuous drug infusion and was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration after its first use in the United Kingdom.
Experts recommend healthy lifestyle choices to help reduce the risk of Parkinson’s, including regular exercise and a nutritious diet — even if that means cutting back on fast food and other unhealthy habits.
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