Paraquat Exposure Alert: Paraquat Linked To Parkinsons Diseaseagricultural Workers Could Be Entitled To Compensation
Agricultural workers who were exposed to the herbicide paraquat and have been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease may have a claim for financial compensation.
With lawsuits against paraquat manufacturers already filed in multiple states, attorneys are now investigating paraquat lawsuit cases at no charge.
A paraquat toxic exposure lawsuit may be your only chance to receive the compensation you need to cover the costs of treating Parkinsons disease.
Is World’s Most Popular Weed Killer Causing Parkinson’s New Study Shows Roundup Herbicide Also Could Be Linked To Cancer And Infertility
23:09 EST, 25 April 2013 | Updated:
Heavy use of the world’s most popular herbicide, Roundup, could be linked to a range of health problems and diseases, including Parkinson’s, infertility and cancers, according to a new study.
The peer-reviewed report, published last week in the scientific journal Entropy, said evidence indicates that residues of glyphosate, the chief ingredient in Roundup weed killer, which is sprayed over millions of acres of crops, has been found in food.
Those residues enhance the damaging effects of other food-borne chemical residues and toxins in the environment to disrupt normal body functions and induce disease, according to the report.
Silent ‘killer’: A peer-reviewed report says the herbicide Roundup could be linked to multiple diseases, including Parkinson’s, infertility and cancers
Large-scale use: Roundup weed killer, whose main ingredient is glyphosate, is sprayed over millions of acres of crops
The study was authored by Stephanie Seneff, a research scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Anthony Samsel, a retired science consultant from Arthur D. Little, Inc. Samsel is a former private environmental government contractor as well as a member of the Union of Concerned Scientists.
Negative impact on the body is insidious and manifests slowly over time as inflammation damages cellular systems throughout the body, the study says.
Roundup is also popularly used on lawns, gardens and golf courses.
Study: Potential Link Between Parkinson’s Disease And A Widely
by Courtney Flatt
One of the countrys most widely-used herbicides could be linked to an increase in early deaths from Parkinsons disease for people who live near farmlands, according to new research in Washington.
Parkinsons is a neurodegenerative disease that causes muscles to stop functioning properly. There are no known cures.
New research conducted in some of Washingtons most productive agricultural regions suggests glyphosate, the active ingredient in the popular herbicide Roundup, could be linked to more people dying from Parkinsons disease before they turn 75.
I remember sitting in the office, and I think we were all looking at each other and thinking, Wow, thats serious, said Mariah Caballero, the studys lead author.
The research team studied land-use maps from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that showed agricultural chemical applications and death data from the Washington Department of Health. In some cases, the researchers found that people living within 1 kilometer of an area that had sprayed glyphosate were nearly one-third more likely to die from Parkinsons disease before reaching the age of 75.
Caballero, a senior at Vassar College, conducted the research at Washington State Universitys Community Health and Spatial Epidemiology Lab. The study was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
Don’t Miss: What Is The Life Expectancy Of Someone With Parkinson’s Disease
Paraquat Exposure And Parkinsons Disease
According to the American Parkinson Disease Association, studies have linked an increased risk of Parkinsons disease in people who were exposed to a rural environment at an early age including:
- Farmers
- People exposed to farm animals
- People who live on farms
- People with known exposure to pesticides
- People who drink well water
- People who live in a rural area
These studies go on to suggest that the uniting factor in these occurrences of Parkinsons disease with people living in rural areas can be traced to exposure to pesticides. In a study of these pesticides, Paraquat was shown to have one of the strongest associations with causing the development of known mechanisms linked to the pathology of Parkinsons disease.
To see if you qualify for a Paraquat lawsuit, call 1-800-525-7111 for a FREE consultation and claim investigation.
We are committed to seeking justice for those whose Parkinsons disease was potentially caused by Paraquat.
If you or a loved one have been exposed to Paraquat and developed Parkinsons disease, call 1-800-525-7111 for a FREE review of your case to see if you may qualify for a Paraquat lawsuit.
This settlement changed me and my familys lives.
Linda B., Riddle & Brantley client
Is Roundup Like Paraquat
Monsantos Roundup is also a weed killer in use for the same purpose as Paraquat. However, it does not contain Paraquat, although most farmers use both herbicides together.
Sometimes, when plants become resistant to Roundup, the farmers start using Paraquat instead. But, just like Paraquat, Roundup also causes Parkinsons disease, which is why its lawsuits are pretty similar to Paraquat Parkinsons lawsuits.
Look here for information on Roundup non-hodgkins lymphoma lawsuits.
Read Also: Rapid Onset Dystonia Parkinsonism
Herbicide Paraquat Is Linked To Parkinsons Disease In Users Sparking Lawsuits
Agricultural workers and gardeners have used herbicides for years to counter threats to plants. However, many of these chemicals have harmful side effects. The link between Roundup and cancer became apparent in recent years. The weed killer paraquat has been linked to Parkinsons disease and a flood of new lawsuits against manufacturers.
Paraquat is a toxic chemical used by farmers as a herbicide. Landowners usually use paraquat on grass and weeds. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, paraquat has been on the market since 1961 and is one of the most widely used herbicides.
Paraquat is only used by commercially licensed users in the United States, due to its toxicity. Poisoning is possible if it is mixed with food and drink or via prolonged skin exposure, according to the CDC. It may cause lung damage if inhaled.
The Difference In Scientific Methodology
Many have claimed that Monsanto funded the studies and research done by those organizations and scientists to promote the safety of Roundup, the company that makes and sells Roundup. Investigation of this exact topic occurred in the publication Environmental Sciences Europe, which concluded that either Monsanto or other companies that market or sell glyphosate-containing products funded the studies that deem Roundup safe. The organizations that claim the dangers of Roundup rely only on peer-reviewed studies that use independently collected research.
Recommended Reading: Levodopa Induced Dyskinesia
How You Can Protect Yourself And What You Should Do If You Are Exposed To Paraquat
- Because ingestion is likely to be the primary route of exposure, if poisoning is suspected, avoid any further ingestion and seek medical attention immediately.
- Pre-hospital therapy may include oral administration of activated charcoal or Fullers earth in order to bind ingested paraquat.
- If you think you may have been exposed to liquid paraquat on your clothes or body, remove your clothing, rapidly wash your entire body with soap and water, and get medical care as quickly as possible.
- Removing your clothing:
- Quickly take off clothing that has liquid paraquat on it. Any clothing that has to be pulled over the head should be cut off the body instead of pulled over the head.
- If you are helping other people remove their clothing, try to avoid touching any contaminated areas, and remove the clothing as quickly as possible.
Suffering The Harmful Effects Of Weed Killer
The harmful effects of weed killer have led to tens of thousands of product injury lawsuits throughout the country. And more are being filed all the time. Some of the lawsuits have resulted in substantial jury awards and settlements. Many lawsuits over weed killer products are still ongoing.
If youve regularly used commercial weed killer in your job or off-the-shelf weed killer products in your job or as a recreational gardener and are suffering from Parkinsons, cancer or another harmful effect, contact us today. The accident and injury law office of Terry Bryant in Houston may be able to get you financial compensation.
Our attorneys are experienced in a wide range of serious product liability claims and lawsuits, and we care deeply about making our communities safer. We want to help you, too.
Read Also: Rapid Onset Dystonia Parkinsonism Life Expectancy
Is Paraquat Still In Use
Although the wise decision would be to ban the nationwide use of Paraquat, the herbicide is still legally used in the country. Agricultural farmlands use Paraquat to kill herbicides growing amongst crops.
Unfortunately, profits take priority over the health of hundreds, if not thousands, of farmworkers.
Exposure To Pesticides In The Military
Agent Orange was an herbicide that US troops sprayed in Vietnam from 1961-1971 to kill trees and crops that provided protection and food to the rival army. It is a mixture of two chemicals: 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and 2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxyacetic acid. Agent Orange was also contaminated with Dioxin, a chemical even more damaging than Agent Orange itself, since it is very long-lasting.
The effects of Agent Orange on both the Vietnamese population and on American soldiers has been studied extensively, but with much variability in the results. Birth defects have been attributed to Agent Orange exposure, as well as multiple types of cancer.
With the understanding that the Veteran community served selflessly on behalf of the American people and therefore deserve the protection and support of the American government, the Agent Orange Act was passed in 1991, allowing the Department of Veteran Affairs to declare certain conditions presumptive to exposure to Agent Orange, even if the scientific data associating Agent Orange with that condition was not airtight.
The list of conditions has grown over the years, and in 2010, PD was added. Read here about how veterans who may have been exposed to Agent Orange and have subsequently developed PD are eligible for VA healthcare and disability compensation. APDA offers a free booklet specifically for veterans to help them find the care and support they need.
Recommended Reading: Does Sam Waterston Have Parkinson
Organizations Promoting The Safety Of Roundup
There are several prominent organizations throughout the world that continue to promote and identify glyphosate as a safe chemical whose use does not lead to any type of illnesses or medical conditions. Most prominently, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the European Food Safety Authority have continued to publish research and take the stance that there is no connection between Roundup and any type of cancer or other medical condition. While some of their research goes back decades. As recently as January 2020, EPA reconfirmed their position that Roundup and glyphosate remain completely safe for human use.
What Should People With Parkinsons Know About Paraquat
Paraquat is an herbicide that has been linked to Parkinsons. It is a widely used commercial herbicide in the U.S. that is banned in 32 countries, including the European Union and China. In fact, paraquat along with another pesticide, rotenone, is routinely used in research as one of the ways to induce and study parkinsonism in animal models of PD.
The Parkinsons Foundation, along with the Unified Parkinsons Advocacy Council, signed two letters to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency encouraging them to cancel the registration of paraquat based on strong scientific research linking the herbicide to Parkinsons disease.
In October 2020, the EPA re-approved paraquat for use in the U.S. Without additional action, paraquat will remain legal for sale and use in the U.S. for the next 15 years.
Read Also: Stress-induced Cognitive Impairment
Contact Our Knowledgeable Houston Lawyers For Help Today
Becoming ill from a product that is legally sold and that you used according to directions is frustrating and confusing. You shouldnt have to pay the financial cost for a companys negligence when you are already paying the physical price.
We want to see that you get the money you deserve. Call us today at 973-8888 to arrange a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. We understand how to take on big corporations to get clients the best possible outcomes. And you have nothing to lose by speaking with us. We provide free consultations, and we only get paid if you have a successful recovery. Dont hesitate to reach out to our Houston law firm. We are on your side when you have been negligently harmed by dangerous weed killers.
RESOURCES
Learn More Aboutroundup Lawsuits
Exposure to RoundUp May Increase Risk of Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma and Other Cancers. Lawsuits Reviewed Nationwide.
Related Stories
The risk of health problems from Roundup has been at the forefront of debate over the widespread use of the weed killing chemical. Proponents, including manufacturer Monsanto, maintain that glyphosate is not harmful. However, environmental groups and other advocates for chemical safety have asserted that the chemical does more harm than good.
The studys findings suggest that glyphosate enhances the harmful effects of other food borne chemical toxins and residues. Glyphosate is known to inhibit certain key amino acids and cause a chemical disruption to the natural internal balance of the body which can cause disease.
Negative impact on the body is insidious and manifests slowly over time as inflammation damages cellular systems throughout the body, the study co-authors wrote.
Don’t Miss: Substantia Nigra Degeneration
Is Paraquat Banned In The United States
Paraquat is not banned in the United States, but its restricted to licensed applicators. Because of its toxicity, some lawmakers and activists have fought to get it banned.
The Protect Americas Children from Toxic Pesticides Act of 2020 cites that paraquat causes heart failure, kidney failure, liver failure, lung scarring, and damage to brain cells and greatly increases the risk of developing Parkinsons disease.
The Protect Against Paraquat Act of 2019 was introduced to require the EPA to cancel the registration for all uses of paraquat, to ban paraquat residue on food and to prohibit the sale and use of existing paraquat stock.
So far, legislation to ban paraquat hasnt been successful.
Specific Pesticides And Their Link To Pd
The evidence that pesticide use is associated with an increased risk in PD, begs the question are there specific pesticides that are most concerning? When data is collected on this topic in large populations, often the participants in the study are unaware of which specific pesticide exposures they have had. This makes it difficult to determine which pesticides to avoid.
Some studies however were able to investigate the risks of specific chemicals. A recent review summarized the current state of knowledge on this topic. The chemical with the most data linking it to an increased PD risk is paraquat, with exposure associated with a 2-3 fold increased PD risk over the general population.
One particularly comprehensive study investigated exposure to 31 pesticides and their association with PD risk. From that data emerged paraquat and rotenone as the two most concerning pesticides.
- Paraquats mechanism of action is the production of reactive oxygen species, intracellular molecules that cause oxidative stress and damage cells.
- Rotenones mechanism of action is disruption of the mitochondria, the component of the cell that creates energy for cell survival.
Interestingly, both mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are common themes in our general understanding of what causes death of nerve cells in PD.
Recommended Reading: Is Parkinson’s Disease Fatal
Parkinsons Disease As A Result Of Paraquat Exposure
Parkinsons disease is only second to Alzheimers as the most common neurodegenerative condition in the country. As the dopaminergic neurons in the brain degenerate, so do a persons motor functions. This leaves the patient with physical challenges like:
- Limb rigidity and tremors
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Challenges typing or writing by hand
Those suffering from Parkinsons disease can even experience non-motor symptoms, such as personality changes. Over time, the condition gets progressively worse, with disabling effects. You may have difficulty walking or communicating.
Despite being common, Parkinsons disease has no established cause. Genetic factors can contribute to your risk for Parkinsons disease, but only recent studies have shone a light on the possibility of environmental exposures like herbicides causing the condition.
Rural Well Water Linked To Parkinson’s Disease
California finding bolsters theory linking neurological ailment to insecticides
Rural residents who drink water from private wells are much more likely to have Parkinsons disease, a finding that bolsters theories that farm pesticides may be partially to blame, according to a new California study.
This article originally ran at Environmental Health News, a news source published by Environmental Health Sciences, a nonprofit media company.
Also Check: Non Parkinson’s Bradykinesia
How Frost Law Firm Can Help Victims Of Paraquat Exposure
At Frost Law Firm PC, we are dedicated to helping those who have been harmed or have suffered due to the negligence of major corporations. We are currently seeking individuals and families of anyone who has been exposed to Paraquat and was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease or believes they may have the symptoms. By taking part in the multidistrict litigation against Syngenta, you may be able to receive compensation that can go towards medical bills, loss of wages, and other recovery-associated costs.
To learn how we may be able to help, please get in touch with our law firm today. Regardless of where you live in the United States, we may be able to help you file a claim. To learn more about Paraquat litigation, you can also check out our recent blog with case updates here.
READ PREVIOUS