Parkinson’s Disease and Its Relationship to Paraquat
Although banned in most of the world, the Paraquat herbicide continues to be used in the United States. The use of this non-selective herbicide has escalated in this country for several reasons, including tolerance to Monsanto’s Roundup. It affects farmworkers and residents living in areas where it is used. Although only licensed individuals can buy and apply the chemical, the danger of using it remains. Let’s take a look at this herbicide and the damage it causes.
Olinde Law Firm Fights for Those Harmed by Paraquat
Our firm believes that corporations need to be held accountable when their actions result in harm to others. That belief underlies our efforts to ensure that individuals who developed Parkinson’s Disease from this herbicide do not have to financially suffer its ill effects. We help them file a civil lawsuit against the manufacturer and obtain the compensation they deserve. Call us at (800) 587-1889 to schedule a free, no-obligation case review. We are here to help and will use our experience and resources to ensure your rights. Remember, you do not pay us until you win your case.
What Is Paraquat?
This toxic chemical herbicide for weed and grass control was introduced as a commercial product in 1961 in the United States. It is distributed in a liquid form and is poisonous. To avoid confusion and possible ingestion, it is usually distributed with the addition of a blue dye and a strong odorous repellant. In addition, another agent is added that induces vomiting. Such repellants may not be in Paraquat manufactured in other countries.
How People Are Exposed to This Herbicide
Some of the primary ways people are exposed are:
- Skin exposure: This occurs when an individual is using Paraquat without protecting themselves. The exposure is usually prolonged, and the chemical is concentrated. It is particularly dangerous if the skin is not intact. The manufacturer should place warning labels on the container.
- Inhalation: This can lead to lung damage and other consequences. In the past, marijuana plants contained Paraquat.
- Food contamination and ingestion: This route of exposure occurs most often when Paraquat is not chemically treated to avoid this issue. It leads to serious problems due to poisoning.
Parkinson’s Associated With Exposure
With the increased use of Paraquat in the United States, the incidence of poisoning and exposure-related Parkinson’s is rising. The National Institute of Environmental Sciences and JAMA have taken steps to alert us to its dangers and its involvement with the development of Parkinson’s disease pathology. Some symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease are:
- Hand, leg, face and arm tremors
- Slow movement
- Arm, leg and trunk stiffness
- Poor balance
- Poor coordination
NIH Study Links Paraquat to Parkinson’s Disease
According to the study, individuals who are exposed to Paraquat develop Parkinson’s 2.5 times more often than those who have no contact with the herbicide. The research was a collaboration of the Parkinson’s Institute and Clinical Center and the National Institutes of Health. This herbicide was found to interfere with oxygen production at the cellular level, injuring component cells and increasing the risk of Parkinson’s disease.
Lawsuits Involving Paraquat
Manufacturers of Paraquat such as Syngenta, Growmark, and Chevron U.S.A. are involved in numerous lawsuits dealing with the emergence of Parkinson’s after exposure. They are seeking to receive compensation for their medical expenses, loss of quality of life, lost wages and pain and suffering. If you suspect that Paraquat exposure links to your development of Parkinson’s, it is important to seek the insight of an experienced attorney since an investigation into your case will be needed. It is also critical that all documents be filed correctly and in a timely manner.
Olinde Law Firm
The Olinde Law Firm is experienced in obtaining the compensation that victims of Paraquat exposure and subsequent development of Parkinson’s need and deserve. Don’t wait to call us at (800) 587-1889, or contact us online to schedule a free case review. We have helped others with Paraquat-induced Parkinson’s file a civil lawsuit, and we will work hard to help you too.
Photo attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/herbicide-avignon-in-rice-field-587589/
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