Paraquat is a highly toxic herbicide that has been largely marketed over the past six decades. Today, it is most commonly used for groundskeeping and commercial agriculture in the US.
Despite the well-documented dangers of the herbicide, it is still being manufactured. In fact, almost 11 million pounds of the herbicide are sprayed annually across various American crops.
Agricultural workers exposed to the herbicide paraquat that have also been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease as a result of this can claim financial compensation by filing a paraquat lawsuit.
Here’s everything you need to know about this link between Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease.
What Is Paraquat Herbicide?
Paraquat is a toxic commercial herbicide that could cause an array of issues if inhaled or directly consumed. Many farmers who apply herbicides could eventually become exposed to the product, even if they are highly trained, which could cause many health problems.
However, it’s not just farmers who may suffer. Anyone living in more rural areas might be exposed to the herbicide and could suffer from conditions including Parkinson’s Disease – a condition that can lead to long-term consequences such as permanent disability.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease that is said to be caused by multiple factors. The nerve cells in the substantia nigra do not produce enough dopamine which causes the movements that symbolize Parkinson’s disease such as tremors, gait problems, and limb rigidity.
Though Parkinson’s is a movement disorder it can also bring about sleep disorders, cognitive impairment, depression, and even constipation. It’s recently been discovered that certain chemicals in herbicides like paraquat could potentially cause the disorder. As of today, there is no known cure for Parkinson’s.
The Link Between Paraquat And Parkinson’s Disease
Paraquat was first introduced in the 1960s. It was initially used to stop the growth of Mexican poppy fields by the US government to prevent the manufacturing of heroin but was then used as a type of weed killer to ensure lawns and fields were kept free from more stubborn weeds.
Paraquat is typically used in the US and has a solid link to Parkinson’s disease. It is banned in over 32 countries including China and is frequently used in areas of research to induce and then study the effects of Parkinson’s.
The increase in usage translates directly into increased exposure to paraquat and all of the harms that come along with the toxic chemical. Some common symptoms of paraquat-associated Parkinson’s diagnosis will include the following:
- Seizures
- Abdominal pain
- Poor balance
- Pulmonary edema
- Tremors
- Weak or stiff muscles
- Nausea
- Difficulties in breathing
Is Paraquat The Only Herbicide With Links To Human Health Effects?
No, it isn’t. The herbicide Rotenone also has links to Parkinson’s disease yet it was phased out in the US due to lots of safety concerns. Other herbicides have been linked to conditions including breast cancer, leukemia, learning difficulties, and infertility.
Rise In Paraquat Lawsuits
While paraquat is more commonly used on American crops, the risk and probability of farmworkers and rural inhabitants becoming sick and developing diseases increases. This specifically concerns Parkinson’s disease which can be costly and difficult to treat.
The United States is years behind other countries in terms of eliminating and banning the use of harmful herbicides on crops. The use of herbicides like paraquat is well-documented yet the manufacturing companies of such herbicides continue to push out products at an almost alarming rate.
This goes to show that these companies are prioritizing potential profits over employee health, and those also living nearby. It is reasons like this that inspire affected parties to fight back and hold these companies accountable by filing a lawsuit.
What You Must Know If You’re Considering A Paraquat Lawsuit
If you are thinking about starting or joining a lawsuit, there are a few key things you must know.
- You could seek compensation for all damages such as lost wages, medical costs, and even pain and suffering.
- You will need to find an experienced lawyer in this field to prove that your Parkinson’s disease is linked to exposure to herbicides.
- An initial consultation will likely be free so you won’t need to fork out money to begin your claim.
Summary
This is everything you need to know about paraquat and Parkinson’s disease. There are quite a few health dangers associated with herbicides like paraquat, but none more so than the potential risk of Parkinson’s. The link between the two remains strong even after all the years that the product has been manufactured.
