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Research call-out: Drooling in Parkinson’s

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 45 minutes, where their swallowing of saliva will be measured using a coin-sized microphone taped onto our neck.

Who is eligible?

The researchers have collected data from people with Parkinson’s who experience excessive drooling. Now, the researchers are seeking:

  • people without Parkinson’s who do not experience drooling (age matched to those with Parkinson’s) to provide comparison data

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.

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Please note: Fight Parkinson’s uses the phrase Parkinson’s rather than Parkinson’s Disease to reflect the community’s preference. Parkinson’s Disease is used only when necessary such as in medical, research or government contents, or in direct quotes.