A new study suggests that living near a golf course may increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Researchers found that people who lived within one to three miles of a golf course had higher odds of developing the disease. The risk was higher among individuals who relied on tap water near golf courses, particularly in regions where groundwater contamination is more likely.

Researchers analyzed data from over 400 individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s and more than 5,000 control participants without the condition. Those who lived within one mile of a golf course were more than twice as likely to develop Parkinson’s than those who lived six miles away. Experts suspect the link may be tied to pesticide use on golf courses, which can contaminate both air and water supplies.

While the study does not establish a direct cause, it reveals a strong association between proximity to golf courses and Parkinson’s risk. More research is needed to confirm the findings and understand how pesticides might affect the brain. People concerned about exposure may want to check their water source and use filters when possible.