Why Health is First Early Diagnosis: A Persistent Challenge The head of the Clinic, Mayela de Jesús Rodríguez Violante, pointed out that the timely identification of the disease continues to be complex, as in its initial stages the symptoms can be non-specific. She explained that in many cases, at the time of clinical diagnosis, there is already a loss of 60% to 80% of the dopamine-producing neurons, which limits the possibility of intervening at early stages. This situation reinforces the need to strengthen detection and awareness strategies around the first signs of the disease.
Therapeutic Options and Clinical Approach Regarding treatment, the specialist indicated that in selected patients, deep brain stimulation can be used, an intervention that contributes to the control of symptoms in specific cases. This type of therapy is part of a comprehensive approach that seeks to improve the quality of life for people living with Parkinson's, through specialized medical interventions and continuous follow-up.
International Research and New Therapeutic Perspectives The Institute also reported its participation in an international Phase 3 clinical trial, aimed at evaluating new therapeutic alternatives for Parkinson's disease. According to the specialist, this study is aimed at patients in early stages, with less than three years of diagnosis and who meet specific inclusion criteria. The multicenter trial contemplates an approximate follow-up of four years, with the purpose of analyzing the effectiveness of a treatment focused on modifying the progression of the disease.
Medical Training and Research as Strategic Pillars The INNN reiterated that its institutional model is based on the integration of three pillars: specialized clinical care, training of health professionals, and scientific research. This structure allows for strengthening the capabilities of the health system to respond to complex neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's.
In the context of World Parkinson's Day, celebrated every April 11, the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery "Manuel Velasco Suárez" (INNN) reaffirmed its role as a key institution in the approach to this neurodegenerative disease, by integrating specialized clinical care, human resource training, and scientific research. The Institute highlighted that it has over 15 years of experience in training specialists in movement disorders, through the High Specialty Course in Neurodegenerative Diseases and Movement Disorders. Parkinson's disease has positioned itself as one of the main reasons for consultation at the Institute, with between 4,000 and 5,000 annual attendances, which reflects its relevance in neurological clinical practice. To respond to this demand, the INNN operates the Parkinson's and Movement Disorders Clinic, where a multidisciplinary care model is offered that integrates neurology, functional neurosurgery, neuropsychiatry, and sleep disorder management.
