Medically reviewed by Susan W. Lee, DO — Written by Lana Bandoim — Updated on February 18, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Parkinson’s disease is a neurological condition that primarily affects older adults, causing symptoms such as tremors and movement difficulties.
- While some cases of Parkinson’s disease are linked to genetic mutations, it is uncommon for the condition to be directly inherited.
- The development of Parkinson’s disease is likely influenced by a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental factors.
Hereditary diseases are those that are passed from parents to their children through their genes. A genetic disease can be hereditary, but not always. Some genetic diseases are caused by random mutations that aren’t inherited from the parents.
Parkinson’s disease causes tremors, shaking, slow movement, balance problems, and stiffness. It usually affects older adults. Only about 20 percent Trusted Source of those who have Parkinson’s disease have a family history of it. For the rest, the cause of Parkinson’s is usually unknown.
Research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors may cause Parkinson’s disease. In this article, we’ll learn more about these causes, as well as possible prevention.
Genes associated with Parkinson’s
Many genes are involved in Parkinson’s disease. Researchers continue to investigate new mutations and other genes involved in the disease.
The genes associated with Parkinson’s disease include:
- GBA1
- LRRK2
- SNCA
- VPS35
- PRKN
- PINK1
- PARK7 (DJ-1)
- VPS13C
Can Parkinson’s be passed from parent to child?
It’s rare for Parkinson’s disease to be passed down from parent to child. Most cases of Parkinson’s aren’t hereditary. But people who get early-onset Parkinson’s disease are more likely to have inherited it.
Having a family history of Parkinson’s disease may increase the risk that you’ll get it. This means that having a parent or sibling with Parkinson’s slightly increases the risk.
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