Research call-out: drooling in Parkinson’s
Jul. 08, 2022
Do you have Parkinson’s and experience excess saliva or drooling?
A joint research project between Cabrini Health, the University of Melbourne and Monash Health is investigating the cause of drooling as a symptom in Parkinson’s.
In particular, the research project will look at whether spontaneous swallowing is reduced in Parkinson’s compared to healthy controls.
It is estimated that up to 74% of people with Parkinson’s experience drooling – a symptom that can impact self-confidence, speech, eating and social interaction.
What does it involve?
Participants will be required to make a single visit to Cabrini Elsternwick for one hour, where their swallowing of saliva will be measured using a coin-sized microphone taped onto our neck. Researchers may also be able to visit you at home if you live in metropolitan Melbourne.
Who is eligible?
Researchers are seeking both:
- people with Parkinson’s who experience drooling; and
- people without Parkinson’s who do not experience drooling (age matched to those with Parkinson’s).
This means participation may be suitable for both the person living with Parkinson’s and a family member caring for them.
Next steps?
If you are interested, please read the attached document for details including how to register.