Accra, April 12, – Mr Franklin Cudjoe, Founder of IMANI Africa, has called for intensified public education and stronger support systems for persons living with Parkinson’s disease, citing stigma, high treatment costs and limited awareness as major barriers to care.
He made the call at the 2026 edition of “Pedal for Parkinson’s,” a community cycling event organised by the Anidaso Parkinson’s Disease Foundation to mark World Parkinson’s Disease Day in Accra.
The event, themed “Moving Together for Hope,” featured 25-kilometre and 5-kilometre cycling rides, alongside a virtual participation option. It was organised in collaboration with Yenko Mobility, the Ghana Cycling Federation and the Gladiators Cycling Club.
Mr Cudjoe, who shared his personal experience of living with a degenerative neurological condition, explained that Parkinson’s disease affects brain function, particularly dopamine production, leading to symptoms such as tremors, stiffness and impaired movement.
He noted that while some cases are hereditary, many are associated with environmental factors, including exposure to harmful chemicals.
According to him, the condition is manageable through medication and lifestyle adjustments but remains incurable and progressively worsens over time, making strict adherence to treatment and regular exercise essential.
Mr Cudjoe expressed concern about the high cost of treatment, stating that weekly medication and advanced surgical procedures remain beyond the reach of many patients.
He also highlighted persistent stigma, noting that persons with the condition are often misunderstood and sometimes mistaken for being intoxicated or mentally unstable.
He further indicated that misconceptions, even among some health professionals, can delay diagnosis and access to treatment, and therefore called for sustained public education to reduce discrimination.
Mr Cudjoe encouraged affected persons to openly share their experiences to promote early detection and timely medical intervention.
He observed that Parkinson’s disease cuts across all social classes, citing global figures such as Muhammad Ali and Michael J. Fox as examples of individuals who have lived with the condition.
He called for strengthened support systems, including expanded access to treatment and community-based care, to improve the quality of life of patients.
Mr Cudjoe emphasised that sustained advocacy and public engagement remain critical to addressing the growing burden of neurological conditions in society.
GHBUSS
12 April 2026
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