Study Links Industrial Solvent Exposure to Parkinson’s Disease Risk

A new study suggests that prolonged exposure to commonly used industrial solvents may increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Trichloroethylene (TCE) is one such solvent widely used in metal cleaning and dry cleaning. Despite some banned uses, this compound is still employed in industry and continues to pollute air, water, and soil across the United States.

The Connection Between Chemical Exposure and Parkinson’s Disease

The study, published on October 1, 2025, in the journal Neurology by the American Academy of Neurology, indicates that long-term exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE) may be linked to an increased chance of developing Parkinson’s disease. TCE has long been used in industrial settings for degreasing metals, dry cleaning, and other purposes. Although its use is restricted in some cases, it remains an effective solvent in certain industries and is considered a persistent environmental pollutant in the U.S.

Researchers emphasized that the study shows an association rather than direct causation. According to Dr. Brittany Krizanoski from the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, “Long-term outdoor exposure to trichloroethylene was associated with a small but measurable increase in Parkinson’s risk.”

Data Analysis and Exposure Estimation

For the analysis, researchers reviewed healthcare data from 2016 to 2018, focusing on individuals over 67 years old who were newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Each case was compared to five people of the same age and background who did not have the disease. After excluding records without location data, the final group included 221,789 individuals with Parkinson’s and over 1.1 million without it.

Researchers used data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to estimate TCE concentrations in the outdoor air of each participant’s neighborhood. Participants were divided into ten categories based on exposure levels. The data revealed that individuals in areas with higher exposure faced a 10% increased risk of developing Parkinson’s.

Geographical Hotspots

The team identified several geographical “hotspots” with the highest TCE concentrations, particularly in the American Rust Belt and smaller scattered pockets across the country. Parkinson’s rates were examined within a 10-mile radius of the three largest TCE-emitting facilities in the U.S. as of 2002. Researchers found that individuals living near these facilities had higher risks.

Public Health Implications

Krizanoski stated, “Although the increased risk was moderate, the large number of people exposed to TCE in the environment means the potential public health impact could be significant.” She emphasized the need for stronger regulations and increased monitoring of industrial pollutants.

Researchers noted that the study focused on adults in healthcare age, indicating that the findings might not apply to younger individuals or those with early-onset Parkinson’s.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential link between exposure to common industrial solvents and the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. While the findings do not prove direct causation, they support growing evidence that environmental pollutants may contribute to the development of this disease. There is a pressing need to enhance regulatory measures and monitor industrial pollutants to mitigate potential health risks to the population.