Organizer: World Parkinson Congress (WPC)
Website: worldparkinsoncongress.org
Timing: Every 3 years
The World Parkinson Congress (WPC) is the premier international meeting dedicated exclusively to Parkinson's disease and related disorders including multiple system atrophy, progressive supranuclear palsy, and dementia with Lewy bodies. Unlike general neurology conferences, WPC focuses specifically on Parkinson's, bringing together the entire Parkinson's community including researchers, clinicians, people with Parkinson's, care partners, and advocates.
The triennial congress provides a unique platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and advocacy, with a distinctive emphasis on including people living with Parkinson's as active participants rather than merely observers. This patient-inclusive approach has helped shape research priorities and clinical care practices.
- Triennial Schedule: Held every three years (2026 will be 7th WPC)
- Patient Inclusion: People with Parkinson's actively participate as presenters and leaders
- Global Reach: Delegates from 70+ countries worldwide
- Comprehensive Focus: All aspects of Parkinson's care and research
- 3,000+ healthcare professionals
- 1,000+ people with Parkinson's
- 500+ care partners and family members
- 300+ researchers and clinicians
- 200+ industry representatives
¶ Care and Quality of Life
- Plenary Sessions: Keynote addresses by international field leaders
- Breakout Sessions: Focused workshops on specific topics
- Abstract Presentations: Original research findings
- Poster Sessions: Visual research displays
- Debates: Controversial topics discussed by experts
- Meet-the-Experts: Intimate Q&A sessions with leading researchers
The most recent WPC was held in Barcelona, Spain:
- Over 4,500 delegates from 70+ countries
- 250+ scientific sessions covering all aspects of Parkinson's
- First hybrid format offering virtual attendance options
- Strong emphasis on inclusive research involving patients
The 7th World Parkinson Congress will continue the tradition of bringing together the global Parkinson's community.
WPC has significantly influenced Parkinson's research and care:
- Research Collaboration: Facilitated international partnerships and consortia
- Patient Advocacy: Amplified patient voices in research priority setting
- Clinical Practice: Disseminated best care practices globally
- Awareness: Increased public understanding of Parkinson's disease
- Funding: Helped direct research funding toward patient-centered topics
What distinguishes WPC from other conferences:
- People with Parkinson's can present research
- Care partners participate in working groups
- Patient advocates lead sessions
- Accessibility accommodations for all attendees
- Virtual options for those unable to travel
The congress features extensive coverage of disease-modifying therapies including:
¶ Biomarkers and Diagnostics