James H. Bower, M.D.

Location

SUMMARY

James H. Bower, M.D., focuses his research on movement disorders and global health. He studies the epidemiology of parkinsonism, including Parkinson's disease and atypical parkinsonian syndromes, as well as neurological disease in resource‑limited settings. Dr. Bower leads and contributes to numerous clinical trials in progressive supranuclear palsy and Parkinson's disease, helping identify key risk and protective factors for these conditions. He has advanced neurological care in sub‑Saharan Africa by developing screening tools and documenting disease burden. His work integrates clinical expertise, population‑based research and international collaboration to improve neurological care worldwide.

Focus areas

• Epidemiology of parkinsonism. Dr. Bower has conducted extensive population‑based studies on the incidence, prevalence and survival outcomes of Parkinson's disease and related conditions. His research spans descriptive and analytic epidemiology, identifying trends and risk factors such as anxiety, depression, head trauma and lifestyle influences including smoking and coffee consumption.
• Clinical trials in movement disorders. Dr. Bower serves as principal investigator for multiple clinical trials targeting progressive supranuclear palsy and Parkinson's disease. These studies evaluate novel therapeutic approaches, including intrathecal drug administration and disease-modifying agents. The work aims to improve safety, tolerability and efficacy for patients with severe movement disorders.
• Global neurology and capacity building. Dr. Bower's research seeks to strengthen neurological care in sub-Saharan Africa. His work includes documenting the burden of neurological disease, creating validated screening instruments for resource-poor settings and mentoring local physicians. Through annual teaching visits and curriculum development, he has helped establish neurology training programs in Ethiopia, significantly expanding access to specialized care.
• Risk factor analysis and disease mechanisms. Dr. Bower investigates genetic, environmental and behavioral contributors to Parkinson's disease. His studies examine associations with nonsteroidal anti‑inflammatory drug use, hormonal factors and inflammatory processes, offering insights into disease mechanisms and potential targets for intervention.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Bower's research helps healthcare professionals understand why Parkinson's disease and related conditions happen and how they progress. By finding patterns and risk factors, his work supports earlier diagnosis and better treatment plans. He leads studies that test new treatments to see whether they can slow the worsening of disease and help people live better. Dr. Bower also works to ensure that patients in underserved areas of the world receive the neurological care they need, helping reduce disability and save lives.

Professional highlights

• Mayo Clinic:
  • Practice chair, Neurology, 2020-present.
  • Director, Mayo Clinic Global Health Program, 2016-present.
  • Chair, Division of Movement Disorders, 2013-present.
  • Director, Movement Disorders Fellowship, Division of Movement Disorders, 2013-2016.
• American Academy of Neurology:
  • Member, International Affairs Committee, 2010-present.
  • Mridha Spirit of Neurology Humanitarian Award, 2019.
• Principal investigator, Epidemiology of Neurologic Disease in Africa, National Institutes of Health, 2007-present.
• Member, Task Force on Epidemiology, International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society, 2002-2018.