APDA’s New Diversity-Focused Grant Invigorates Inclusion in Parkinson’s Research
As part of our efforts to support novel and innovative research, your generosity has made it possible for the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) to grant $1.4 million to support critical Parkinson’s disease (PD) research for the 2020-2021 funding year ― one of the grants awarded being the first-of-its-kind Diversity in Parkinson’s Disease Research grant.
Shedding new light on research for underrepresented communities
The APDA Diversity in Parkinson’s Disease Research grant was created to help study the circumstances of PD in diverse and underrepresented communities.
Chantale Branson, MD, was awarded the grant through our annual competitive application process and review by APDA’s Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). Dr. Branson will focus on better understanding the factors that affect the diagnosis of PD in a large African American population and provide additional data on the causes of the disparities and the prevalence of PD in this population. This research is important because people of African descent often have delayed diagnosis, more severe symptoms at the time of diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and worse clinical outcomes compared to their Caucasian counterparts.
Diversity as a priority for the future of PD research
“We are proud to encourage and support researchers who are committed to diversity-focused research so we can learn more about how the disease affects different populations and ultimately better serve people with PD from all communities,” states David G. Standaert, MD, PhD, John N. Whitaker Professor, Chair of Neurology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, and Chairman of the SAB.
With the steadfast support of our community, we can continue to fund promising scientific research and help develop better treatments and ultimately, a cure. Our work is not possible without you. Visit the Research section of our website to learn more about APDA-funded research.