What the Research Suggests About Golf Courses and Parkinson’s
Living within a mile or two of a golf course might sound idyllic, but a new study has raised eyebrows by suggesting it could also carry a higher risk of Parkinson’s disease, possibly linked to pesticide exposure. The study, published in JAMA Network Open and led by researchers from the Barrow Neurological Institute and Mayo Clinic, found that living within 1–3 miles of a golf course was associated with significantly increased odds of developing Parkinson’s.
Lead author Dr. Brittany Krzyzanowski explained, “These findings suggest that pesticides applied to golf courses may play a role in the incidence of PD [Parkinson’s disease] for nearby residents.”
But the research comes with key limitations, and experts stress that the findings are preliminary, not a reason to panic.
How Strong Is the Link Between Golf Course Proximity and Parkinson’s?
The case-control study looked at:
- 419 patients with Parkinson’s (average age: 73)
- 139 golf courses across southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin
- Data from 1991 to 2015 via the Rochester Epidemiology Project
Key findings:
- Living within 1 mile of a golf course was associated with a 126% higher risk of Parkinson’s compared to living more than 6 miles away.
- Residents in municipal water service areas that included a golf course had nearly double the risk.
- In areas with vulnerable groundwater, the risk jumped by 82%.
Researchers adjusted for age and income, suggesting that demographics alone don’t explain the elevated risk.
What Might Be Causing This? Pesticides Are the Leading Suspect
The study did not directly measure pesticide exposure, but the authors believe the use of lawn chemicals and pesticides on golf courses could be the missing link—especially given prior associations between Parkinson’s and environmental toxins.
“We speculate that pesticides might play a role,” said Krzyzanowski. “However, we didn’t include data on pesticides in this study, so future research is needed.”
Dr. Mary Ann Picone, a neurologist unaffiliated with the study, agreed that the research adds to a growing body of concern.
“There has often been discussion regarding risks for development of Parkinson’s disease and environmental agents such as pesticides,” she told Fox News Digital.
She also pointed out that airborne exposure and groundwater contamination—particularly in areas with well systems or porous bedrock—could increase vulnerability.
Limitations: Why the Results Aren’t Conclusive
While the numbers are striking, the researchers and independent experts caution that this doesn’t prove causation. Some important limitations:
- Pesticide exposure wasn’t measured directly
- The study didn’t account for genetic risk or other environmental factors (like head injuries)
- It focused on a specific region (Minnesota and Wisconsin), which may not reflect national or global trends
- Parkinson’s takes decades to develop, so past exposure may not reflect current pesticide use
“There are many other aspects that can interfere with developing a disease,” said senior study author Dr. Rodolfo Savica of Mayo Clinic.
The authors also emphasized that while the study shows correlation, it cannot confirm pesticides are to blame.
Industry Response: Golf Course Association Pushes Back
A spokesperson for the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America acknowledged the study but warned against jumping to conclusions.
“Public health experts and researchers who have reviewed the study have noted that the study’s methodological limitations make it difficult to draw conclusions from the data.”
They also emphasized that:
- EPA-registered pesticides are tested rigorously for health risks
- Superintendents follow integrated pest management, which minimizes pesticide use and environmental impact
Should You Be Worried?
Not necessarily. The study raises valid concerns, but it’s too early to make broad public health recommendations. Experts stress that living near a golf course isn’t a definitive Parkinson’s risk, especially without knowing what pesticides were used, in what amounts, and over what timeframe.
“If you’re worried about exposure of any kind, you should consult with your doctor,” Krzyzanowski advised.
Meanwhile, Savica encouraged people—especially older adults—to stay active and enjoy outdoor activities.
“I recommend people continue to play sports outdoors and enjoy the sociality of any activity, including playing golf.”
What’s Next? A Call for More Research
Experts agree that larger, more detailed studies are needed to investigate the possible link between golf course pesticides and Parkinson’s. Specifically:
- Direct measurement of chemical exposure
- Data from multiple geographic regions
- Consideration of genetics and medical history
- Differentiation between past and present pesticide use
“This study raises concern and the need for larger population sample research,” said Picone.