Brett Favre: What is Parkinson’s? Causes and symptoms of the disease diagnosed in the NFL legend

The legendary American football quarterback revealed the disease at 54 years old. A few days before his 55th birthday (October 10, 1969), Brett Favre has made a harsh revelation: he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s .

The legendary quarterback and NFL Hall of Famer confirmed the illness, which immediately raised alarm bells that it was related to the blows to the head.

Brett Favre reveals he suffers from Parkinson’s

During his testimony regarding a welfare fund embezzlement scandal in Mississippi , the General revealed that he lost his investment in a company that was developing an innovative drug for concussions; however, it is too late for him now.

“Unfortunately, I also lost an investment in a company that I believed was developing an innovative drug for concussions that I thought would help others,” Favre said during his appearance before the House Ways and Means Committee.

“I’m sure you can understand why it’s too late for me, because I was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s . This is also a cause that is close to my heart,” he insisted.

The former quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons, Green Bay Packers, New York Jets and Minnesota Vikings had to defend himself against the scandal surrounding Prevacus , a company that makes a drug for concussions that had received $2 million in Tanf funds, and in which he was the main investor.

However, it was all a fraud, as Prevacus founder Jacob VanLandingham pleaded guilty to wire fraud in July , admitting that he used the money to pay gambling losses and other debts. After investigation, it was determined that at least $77 million in TANF funds were diverted to the richest and most powerful.

What causes Parkinson’s?

The disease is a movement disorder that occurs when neurons in the brain do not produce enough dopamine, and although the exact causes of Parkinson’s are unknown, it is believed that they may be related to:

Genetic factors: It is estimated that between 15% and 25% of people with Parkinson’s disease have family members who also suffer from it.
Environmental factors: Some epidemiological studies suggest that exposure to toxic substances such as pesticides, herbicides or chemicals may increase the risk of developing the disease.
Age: Age is a determining factor, as the risk increases after 60 years.
Head trauma: May also be associated with an increased risk of developing the disease.