Researchers at a major United States university have reported that a chemical commonly used to clean clothes may contribute to the development of Parkinson’s disease. The findings appeared in a specialized medical journal dedicated to Parkinson’s research, underscoring growing concerns about chemical exposure and brain health.
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a chlorinated hydrocarbon that has been employed in dry cleaning and as a solvent in various industries. Workers in dry cleaning facilities have used TCE to tackle tough stains and soils that ordinary detergents cannot remove, often in settings where stain removal is a daily routine.
Looking across the available studies, the researchers found associations between TCE exposure and Parkinson’s disease. The review notes clinical records in which exposure to TCE preceded the onset of neurological symptoms, and in some cases, cognitive decline occurred decades later. The long latency suggests the need for ongoing monitoring of individuals with substantial TCE exposure and for long-term health tracking in exposed populations.
Experts caution that the disease trend could worsen if the substance continues to be used in industrial and consumer contexts. TCE has been detected in groundwater, air, and soil, and there is concern that drinking water could become contaminated in some settings. The researchers advocate for a reconsideration of TCE use, emphasizing the importance of protective measures for workers and communities, and calling for policy reviews to minimize exposure and safeguard public health. In their view, reducing or eliminating the use of this chemical could lower future risk and align with broader efforts to prevent environmentally driven neurodegenerative conditions. For those monitoring occupational health, these findings reinforce the link between environmental factors and brain health, highlighting the need for preventive strategies, surveillance, and transparent communication about potential risks. Citation: University of Rochester study.”