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Science & Cocktails: The Parkinson Pandemic

woensdag 19 maart 2025

In Tolhuistuin - Club

Doors: 19:00, Support: 19:30, Main programme: 20:30

Program is half seated, half standing

This show is part of

Kosmos

Science & Cocktails is a series of public talks by scientists with live music and smoky dry-ice chilled cocktails in your hand

19:00 doors open for cocktails

19:30 Chica Chica (live)

20:30 Bas Bloem (talk)

Event in English, semi-seated.

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Parkinson’s disease is the world’s fastest-growing neurodegenerative disorder, and this trend is deeply concerning for two reasons. First, it is a debilitating condition that severely impacts both individuals and their families. Disease progression is relentless, with no known cure or disease-modifying treatments. While symptomatic therapies exist, they provide only limited relief, and quality of life remains significantly affected.

Second, growing evidence suggests that Parkinson’s is, to a large extent, a man-made disease. The global rise in cases is largely driven by exposure to environmental chemicals, making Parkinson’s a potentially preventable condition. In his talk, Professor Bas Bloem will examine the compelling evidence linking ecological factors (such as pesticides) to the onset of Parkinson’s disease. He will also highlight the gaps in current regulations that leave the safety of many widely used chemicals uncertain.

Despite these challenges, there is hope. Bloem will discuss emerging treatment strategies aimed at slowing disease progression and improving patient support. At the Radboudumc Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, researchers are pioneering a holistic approach to care, ensuring that individuals with Parkinson’s and their families receive optimal support.

This event is an initiative by the Dutch Institute for Emergent Phenomena (DIEP) with the support of the University of Amsterdam. Science & Cocktails Amsterdam is presented in cooperation with Paradiso Amsterdam.

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Line-up

Club

Bas Bloem

About the speaker

Professor Bas Bloem is a consultant neurologist at the Department of Neurology at Radboud University Medical Centre in Nijmegen. He earned his medical degree and PhD before training as a neurologist at Leiden University Medical Centre. He further specialized in movement disorders through fellowships at The Parkinson’s Institute (California) and the Institute of Neurology (London). In September 2008, he was appointed Professor of Neurology, focusing on movement disorders.

Bloem serves on the editorial boards of several national and international journals, including as co-editor-in-chief of the Journal of Parkinson’s Disease. He has authored over 1,000 publications and is regarded as one of the world’s leading experts in Parkinson’s disease. His contributions have earned him numerous awards, including the Stevin Prize, the highest recognition for a Dutch scientist whose work has profoundly impacted society. In April 2024, he was appointed Knight in the Order of the Dutch Lion, the highest royal distinction in the Netherlands.

In 2002, Bloem founded and became director of the Radboudumc Centre of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders, which has been recognized as a center of excellence since 2005. Together with Dr. Marten Munneke, he co-developed ParkinsonNet, an innovative healthcare model that now consists of 70 professional networks supporting individuals with Parkinson’s across the Netherlands.

Annemarijne Bax Hemelbestormer Bas Bloem Large

Chica Chica

Psychedelic cumbia, exotic film scores, and danceable grooves form the foundation of Chica Chica’s electrifying sound. Born from a desire to travel, this trio takes you on a musical road trip through time. Expect funky melodic basslines, wild wah-wah guitars, and vibrant South American percussion. Organic and grainy, sunny and full of life. Like an analog photograph on your favorite Peruvian vinyl record.

This rising band started performing live in the summer of 2022 and released their debut album at the end of 2023. Their singles Disco L’Africain and Year of the Dragon were picked up by NPO Soul & Jazz and have been in regular rotation ever since. Earlier this year, they performed at ESNS, and they have since become a sought-after act on summer festival lineups. Currently, the band is in the studio working on their second album, set for release in 2025. This fall, they will be part of Popronde.

More information about the band

Chica Chica

Chica Chica (Single)

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How to get to Tolhuistuin

Tolhuistuin (formerly Paradiso Noord) is located at IJpromenade 2 in Amsterdam North. A free ferry runs from Amsterdam Central Station to Buiksloterweg. From there, turn left and you’ll walk straight into Tolhuistuin. For club nights, the rear entrance (Buiksloterweg 5C) is used. This entrance can be reached via Overhoeksplein

Restaurant
Tolhuistuin also has a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal before the show. We recommend making a reservation in advance via this website.

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