A large population-based study published in JAMA Network Open has raised new concerns about the potential health risks of living near golf courses. The research found that individuals residing within close proximity—particularly within one to three miles—of golf courses showed significantly higher rates of Parkinson’s disease compared to those living farther away. This pattern suggests that environmental factors, rather than coincidence, may be driving the association.

Environmental Risk Factors

Scientists highlight pesticides used in turf maintenance as a likely contributor. Golf courses require intensive chemical applications to maintain their pristine appearance, often exceeding levels used in agriculture or residential landscaping. Several pesticide compounds, including paraquat and organophosphates, have previously been linked to Parkinson’s disease in occupational studies involving farmers and agricultural workers. The possibility that these chemicals leach into groundwater supplies raises further concerns about chronic, low-level exposure among nearby residents.

Mechanisms of Exposure

• Airborne drift: Spraying pesticides can release particles into the air, which may travel beyond course boundaries.

• Water contamination: Runoff and seepage into aquifers can expose communities through drinking water.

• Soil persistence: Certain chemicals remain active in soil for long periods, increasing cumulative exposure risks.

These mechanisms align with prior findings from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), both of which have warned about the neurological risks of long-term pesticide exposure.

Public Health Implications

The study underscores broader concerns about environmental determinants of neurological health. Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, already affects millions worldwide, and incidence rates are rising. If pesticide exposure from golf courses contributes even modestly to this burden, the public health implications are substantial. Experts argue that stricter regulation, safer alternatives, and greater transparency in pesticide use are urgently needed.

Calls for Action

• Regulation: Stronger oversight of pesticide application on recreational land.

• Alternatives: Adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) and organic turf practices.

• Transparency: Public disclosure of chemicals used and their potential health risks.

• Further research: Longitudinal studies to confirm causation and identify specific compounds most responsible.

Environmental health advocates, including groups like EcoWatch and medical experts cited in Medical Dialogues, emphasize that while the association does not prove causation, the evidence is strong enough to warrant precautionary measures.

Bottom Line

Living near golf courses has been associated with higher rates of Parkinson’s disease, likely due to pesticide exposure and environmental contamination. While causation has not yet been definitively established, the findings highlight the urgent need for safer land management practices and continued scientific investigation.

Sources:

• JAMA Network Open (2025–2026 study)

• 9News coverage of the study

• Medical Dialogues summary

• EcoWatch environmental analysis

• WHO & EPA reports on pesticide exposure risks