Paraquat – Parkinson’s Disease

Paraquat is widely used by farmers in the production of crops, including corn, soy, cotton, peanuts, wheat, almonds, strawberries, grapes, sweet potatoes, and others. Its use has doubled over the past decade and is expected to grow due to its effectiveness on “superweeds” that have developed resistance to glyphosate (i.e. Roundup). It can also be used for the desiccation of crops, such as cotton, prior to harvest. In total, farmers apply more than 10 million pounds of paraquat each year.

Because of its toxicity, the EPA classifies paraquat as a “restricted use pesticide.” Only certified applicators who undergo EPA-approved training are able to use paraquat products. There are no homeowner uses for paraquat and the herbicide may not be applied in residential areas or around schools, parks, golf courses, or playgrounds.

Numerous scientific studies have linked paraquat to Parkinson’s. A large 2011 study of U.S. farmers found that those who used paraquat were twice as likely to develop Parkinson’s disease as those who didn’t use the chemical. Other research has found that cumulative exposure over long periods increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s. Data published by Louisiana State University shows that a person’s zip code and proximity to cropland where paraquat is applied correlates with the risk of developing Parkinson’s.

Scientists believe that a deficit of the neurotransmitter dopamine causes Parkinson’s. Studies have demonstrated that paraquat can kill dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain. Inhaling paraquat, which could happen if workers come into contact with aerosolized droplets during crop spraying, gives it a direct pathway to the brain, say researchers at the University of Rochester. However, paraquat could also end up in the brain after ingestion or skin exposure. The CDC notes that, once paraquat enters the body, it is distributed to all areas of the body.

Farmers and agricultural workers who work directly with and around paraquat are at the greatest risk of being exposed to paraquat. Exposure is most likely to occur in the following ways:

• Mixing or loading paraquat
• Spraying paraquat
• Maintaining tanks and equipment used to spray paraquat
• Spending time in fields where paraquat was sprayed

Exposure risks are not limited to people involved in agriculture, though. Evidence also suggests that paraquat can drift from the application site to nearby communities. Thus, people living in agricultural areas may be exposed to paraquat that is applied to crops. Paraquat may contaminate ground or well water and even contaminate fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains that are sold to the public.

Some of the individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease due to their paraquat exposure also noticed motor loss symptoms before their diagnosis. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s best to consult a medical professional for a further review:

• Hand tremors
• Prolonged or extreme stiffness
• Difficulty with body movements
• Loss of balance
• Difficulty walking (slow gait, shuffling)
• Difficulty or soft speaking
• Reduced facial expression, blank stare
• Drooling
• Suddenly small handwriting
• Trembling
• Whole-body fatigue and dizziness
• Amnesia/confusion in evening hours
• Disturbances in sleep
• Anxiety or apathy

While some of these symptoms could be evidence of other health problems, it’s best to speak with a trusted doctor to see if you’re at risk for Parkinson’s. Our attorneys understand how stressful this situation can be for you and your family, which is why we’ll fight tirelessly for the compensation you need to cope with your condition in the future.

Your first priority should be to ensure that you’re getting the care you need to help you cope with the condition. The diagnosis was likely frightening, but your quality of life can be improved through therapy and treatment in the future. Your next step? Contact a Morgan & Morgan Paraquat attorney. 

Retaining an attorney sooner rather than later can help make your case stronger when it gets to the negotiation table. Make sure to collect your medical records, all details relating to your

Unfortunately, many individuals have developed Parkinson’s disease as a result of paraquat exposure, including those who live near agricultural areas where the harmful chemical is used. The widespread use of the substance makes it especially unsettling, as many farmers heavily rely on paraquat without understanding its destructive effects. If you or a loved one were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease due to pesticide exposure, Morgan & Morgan can help you secure the compensation you’re entitled to.

More than 300 plaintiffs have already filed lawsuits against Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. and Syngenta, alleging that their product causes extreme health concerns. If paraquat has jeopardized you or a family member’s health and wellbeing, Morgan & Morgan can help you hold them accountable. 

Syngenta knew the risk of their product yet failed to disclose it to the public, which allowed thousands of agricultural workers to expose themselves and their families to the risk of a life-altering condition. Those who suffer from Parkinson’s require consistent treatment to increase their quality of life, which is a significant expense to endure without proper compensation. However, by holding Syngenta responsible for their negligence, you can recover the medical costs, lost wages, and suffering damages warranted by your situation.

Plaintiffs across the country have filed lawsuits claiming that they were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and that Syngenta’s paraquat weed killers are to blame. If you suffer from Parkinson’s and believe you were exposed to paraquat as a farmer or licensed pesticide applicator, you may be able to file a lawsuit. A successful lawsuit can provide compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses or hardships.

Morgan & Morgan—America’s largest injury law firm—is proud to fight on behalf of America’s farmers. We’ve previously represented farmers in claims involving Monsanto’s Roundup and Dicamba. We have the strength, resources, and reputation to take on Syngenta, the world’s largest agrochemical company. Contact us and schedule a free case review to learn more about how Morgan & Morgan may be able to help you.

Parkinson’s disease doesn’t develop immediately after your exposure to paraquat; it’ll take some time for the condition to fully progress. Fortunately, the court understands this, and those who are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after paraquat exposure can file lawsuits—even if their exposure occurred years in the past. There are also state laws that can factor into your case, so it’s best to speak with one of Morgan & Morgan’s paraquat lawyers as soon as you develop the condition for more information.

At Morgan & Morgan, we believe that everyone should have the ability to afford comprehensive representation, regardless of their financial situation. You pay nothing out-of-pocket, and we’re only paid when we win your case. 

The specific damages that you’ll seek for recovery will depend on the circumstances surrounding your case, but you should expect compensation for all the harm the situation has caused. Here are some common damages that other plaintiffs are filing for:

• Pain and suffering
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages
• Emotional distress
• Rehabilitation expenses

Our attorneys have a proven track record of recovering the full extent of damages in cases just like yours. Other firms will accept the first best offer of compensation, but our attorneys are uniquely positioned to hold out until your settlement accurately reflects the harm you’ve endured. 

While Roundup does contain dangerous chemicals, it doesn’t contain paraquat. Crop resistance has lessened the effectiveness of Roundup’s active ingredient, glyphosate, which has led to the widespread use of paraquat in the agricultural industry.