Jesse Jackson Diagnosed With Parkinson’s Disease At 76

Civil Rights activist Jesse Jackson has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 76.

"My family and I began to notice changes about three years ago," Jackson wrote in a statement this Friday, according to CNN. "After a battery of tests, my physicians identified the issue as Parkinson's disease, a disease that bested my father."

The former politician – who was recently accused of sexual harassment – admitted that recognizing the effects the disease has had on him already has been “painful.”

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It’s also made him realize that he must make lifestyle changes and dedicate myself to physical therapy in hopes of slowing the disease's progression."

Parkinson’s – which is often hereditary – is a degenerative disease that causes trembling in the body as well as other less severe symptoms like anxiety, depression, constipation and insomnia. It usually affects people over 50 and only gets worse with time. While there is still no cure, engaging in physical activities and leading a healthy lifestyle is proven to help stall its advancement.