WE ARE constantly told by a hysterical media that we should worry about our health – the latest alarming study or a new epidemic, leaving the less ‘sensational’ health issues pushed to the side lines.

Parkinson’s is largely a forgotten condition. It isn’t seen as dramatic or frightening, it doesn’t lead to instant death – and so people just don’t know much about it.

This not only leaves many people living with Parkinson’s feeling unseen or misunderstood but, because people simply don’t know what Parkinson’s is, early symptoms are often missed.

Diagnosing Parkinson’s can be tricky, but it’s important to catch the condition as soon as it starts to develop. Early symptoms – like problems with walking or balancing, tremor, or moving more slowly – can easily be dismissed, so people put off going to see their doctor.

I know from watching my dear father that being told you have Parkinson’s is tough, but many people can keep living a full and active life with the right treatment and support. And those who are hit hard need medical advice as soon as possible to help keep this complex condition at bay.

Please take a moment during this Parkinson’s Awareness Week to find out more, get to know the symptoms, and help bring this misunderstood condition into the spotlight.

GRAHAM NORTON, Parkinson’s UK.