Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease: How are they Related?

Paraquat is a famous herbicide that can effectively kill even the most stubborn weeds. Over the years, the chemical has been increasingly used in the agricultural industry. But, the chemical is quite toxic that it can kill a person with one sip. And recent studies show that repeated exposure to the herbicide in low doses may cause the development of Parkinson’s disease. A lot of agricultural workers and farmers have filed a Paraquat lawsuit that claims they developed this condition because of exposure to the chemical. Consult leading paraquat Parkinson attorney pursuing cases on behalf of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, able to help you pursue justice and compensation in a paraquat lawsuit. 

How Paraquat is Used

Farmers use the herbicide Paraquat in producing crops such as cotton, corn, soy, wheat, peanuts, and others. It is increasingly used in farms because of its effectiveness in getting rid of weeds that have developed tolerance to glyphosate. Also, Paraquat can be used for desiccating crops like cotton before harvesting them. 

Due to the chemical’s toxicity, its use has been restricted by the FDA. It can only be used by applicators who completed training that EPA approves. paraquat parkinson’s lawsuit california is no longer available for use in residential areas or even around parks, schools, or playgrounds.

How Paraquat Can Cause Parkinson’s Disease?

According to researchers, Parkinson’s disease is caused by a deficit of dopamine, a brain neurotransmitter. Studies show that Paraquat can kill the nerve cells that produce dopamine. Paraquat inhalation could occur if workers in farms come into contact with aerosolized droplets when spraying crops, allowing them to enter the brain. But, some researchers claim that the chemical can also enter the brain after ingestion or skin exposure. 

Who Can Develop Parkinson’s Because of Exposure to Paraquat?

Agricultural workers and farmers who work around or directly with the chemical are at an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s. Exposure may happen when they mix or load the chemical, spray it, maintain equipment used for spraying the chemical, and spending time in the field sprayed with it. But, some studies claim exposure to the chemical can also drift to nearby communities. Therefore, those who are living in agricultural areas may also be exposed to the chemical when applied to crops. Also, the product may contaminate well or groundwater, vegetables, fruits, and grains that people buy. 

If you suffer Parkinson’s disease because of being exposed to a paraquat Parkinson attorney, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the company that made it. When you succeed, you may get compensation that can cover your medical expenses and other losses.