Rev. Jesse Jackson Hospitalised with Rare Brain Disorder: What Is Progressive Supranuclear Palsy?

Civil rights activist Rev. Jesse Jackson has been hospitalised and is managing neurological disease progressive supranuclear palsy, or PSP, announced the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. The 84-year-old is said

to be under observation for the condition that he was diagnosed with earlier this year, said the organisation in the statement. While Jackson was originally diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, his PSP condition was confirmed in April, they informed. “The family appreciates all prayers at this time,” the group added. After disclosing the Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2017, Jackson continued to make public appearances, including at the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The two-time presidential candidate stepped down as leader of his organization in 2023, and his son, Yusef Jackson, took over as chief operating officer last year. Jesse has been using a wheelchair and continued going into the office regularly until months ago.

What is progressive supranuclear palsy?

Progressive supranuclear palsy, or PSP, is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that damages parts of the brain associated with thinking and movement. According to experts, it causes a range of symptoms, particularly in the muscles around the eyes. In some cases, PSP also leads to behavioral issues like irritability, mood changes, and memory issues. Doctors say PSP is slightly more prevalent in men than women and is more commonly diagnosed in individuals aged 60 years and older. However, in rare cases, symptoms can begin as early as a person’s 40s. Although there is currently no cure for PSP, early diagnosis, symptom management, and supportive care can greatly enhance the lives of individuals living with the disease.

What are the risk factors for PSP?

Studies say PSP is a type of frontotemporal disorder that primarily impacts movement, just like the corticobasal syndrome and the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS. While the exact cause of PSP is unknown, researchers have identified certain factors that contribute to the development of the disease. Certain gene mutations are associated with PSP, but doctors say a majority of cases occur without a clear genetic link. Researchers believe that misfolded tau proteins are responsible for the brain damage that ultimately causes PSP symptoms, which are similar to other degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Signs and symptoms of PSP

PSP causes a range of symptoms, which include:

• Muscle stiffness and weakness
• Impaired balance and coordination
• Difficulty with eye movements
• Slow eye movements
• Difficulty looking up or down
• Turning the entire head to look instead of moving the eyes
• Uncontrollable blinking or inability to open or close the eyelids

Doctors say that over time, PSP symptoms also cause difficulty in speaking, swallowing, and walking. Other symptoms also include cognitive changes, such as issues with memory and problem-solving, as well as behavioural changes and sudden shifts in mood. PSP symptoms tend to get worse over time, leading to a decline in independence and quality of life. Many people eventually need full-time care.