Lawsuits on Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease Injury

With lawsuits being filed against Paraquat, plaintiffs are claiming compensation for Parkinson’s disease caused by extensive exposure to the Paraquat herbicide.

What is Paraquat?

Paraquat is a widely used herbicide that has been available since 1962. It is primarily used to eliminate weeds and act as a post-harvest drying agent. Handling Paraquat—such as mixing, applying, and loading it—requires completing an EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)-approved training program. The herbicide is classified as restricted due to its high toxicity and potential for poisoning or misuse.

According to the CDC, Paraquat is significantly more harmful than many other herbicides. Exposure to this chemical—whether through skin absorption, ingestion, or inhalation—can result in severe health issues, including birth defects, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease. It is typically applied to leaves to kill weeds and is often sprayed before crops are planted. Additionally, Paraquat has been used to eradicate marijuana plants in the USA and Mexico.

Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder predominantly occurring in middle-aged or older individuals. This chronic and progressive illness affects motor functions, causing symptoms such as trembling in the arms and legs, impaired balance, lack of coordination, stiff limbs, and slow movements. Though medical therapies can provide temporary relief, there is no permanent cure for Parkinson’s disease.

If you or a loved one has used Paraquat for an extended period and is showing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, turn to the Youngstown Criminal Law Group. Our experienced Carrollton criminal lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a damage claim.

Things to Know About Paraquat Lawsuits

Link Between Paraquat and Neurological Damage

Research conducted in Southern California during the 1980s revealed that MPTP, a compound structurally similar to Paraquat, could cause severe neurological damage by destroying dopamine neurons, eventually leading to Parkinson’s disease.

The EPA reported in 1997 that individuals exposed to Paraquat during mixing, loading, or application—and even after its application—face significant risks. Alarmingly, not only those directly handling Paraquat are at risk, but residents living near farms where Paraquat is used also suffer exposure.

Living Near Paraquat-Sprayed Areas

According to research published in 2009 in the American Journal of Epidemiology, the risk of Parkinson’s disease increases for people living within 1,600 feet of areas where Paraquat is sprayed. Later, a 2014 article in the Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology further linked environmental toxins, including Paraquat, to Parkinson’s disease. It was found that pesticide applicators exposed to this herbicide are twice as likely to develop the disease compared to the general population.

EPA Actions and Advocacy

The EPA announced in 2016 that it was reevaluating Paraquat’s potential link to Parkinson’s disease. On July 24, 2017, the Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council submitted a letter to the EPA, signed by all members, to present compelling evidence connecting Paraquat exposure to Parkinson’s disease. This letter also implored the EPA to cancel Paraquat’s registration.

Highlighted in the letter were staggering expenses borne by those affected by the disease:

• $26,400 annually for individual Parkinson’s patient care
• $19.8 to $26.4 billion in economic burdens nationwide
• Increased costs for public programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security Disability Insurance

These concerns further spurred health organizations and advocacy groups to battle against the continued use of Paraquat.

Lawsuit Against Manufacturers

In October 2017, a lawsuit was filed against Syngenta and Growmark, major manufacturers of Paraquat. The suit was initiated on behalf of agricultural workers and farmers exposed to the herbicide, citing cases of Parkinson’s disease attributed to their exposure.

If extensive exposure to Paraquat has led you or your loved ones to develop signs of Parkinson’s disease, reach out to the Youngstown Criminal Law Group. Our Carrollton OVI lawyer will work tirelessly to secure justice and compensation for your injuries.

Why Choose Us?

With our experience representing clients affected by defective products and hazardous chemicals, the Youngstown Criminal Law Group stands ready to assist you in navigating the complex legal landscape of Paraquat lawsuits. Whether you’re looking for a trusted Carroll County advocate or a reliable Carrollton criminal lawyer, we’re here to fight for your rights.

Don’t wait – contact us today (330) 992-3036 to see how we can assist you.