Parkinson’s From Paraquat Exposure: Holding Manufacturers Accountable

Agricultural work is of utmost importance in our country and our world. Without those of you who tirelessly tend to our food supply, we would simply not survive. It’s only right that as an agricultural worker, you be treated with utmost respect.

Especially from those whose products you use daily, and who, without your work, there would be no reason for their existence. Unfortunately, that has not been the case. Paraquat manufacturers have not only put those who work directly with their products at risk, but have also endangered those living in neighboring communities to the farms.

The Dangers of Paraquat

Paraquat, or paraquat dichloride, is a toxic herbicide widely used in agricultural farming. For over 20 years, there has been much exploration within the scientific community regarding the link between exposure to paraquat and increased health risks, specifically its connection to Parkinson’s disease.

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disorder known to affect the motor system. Symptoms of Parkinson’s includes:

· Tremors in the hands and limbs

· Impaired coordination and balance

· Slow or involuntary movements

· Muscle rigidity and

· Confusion

Along with Parkinson’s, other medical conditions associated with paraquat exposure include birth defects, cancer, lung disease, liver failure, kidney failure and heart failure. Ingestion, skin-absorption and inhalation of this toxic chemical all leave those in contact with it susceptible to illness, making it particularly insidious.

It’s been determined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that the primary exposure occurs during the mixing, loading and application process. However, the EPA also suggested that risk of exposure is additionally possible for those who are in close proximity to paraquat at the time of application.

As a matter of fact, in 2009, the American Journal of Epidemiology published a study which found that exposure to paraquat within 500 meters (1,600 feet) of one’s home increased the risk of Parkinson’s by 75 percent. Several other similar studies have been conducted, all of which confirm the connection between paraquat and an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease.

While paraquat has already been banned or is in the process of being phased out in China, EU and Brazil, it was re-approved by the EPA for use in the United States, and is still one of our most commonly used herbicides. This shows complete negligence and disregard to the health of agricultural workers and the American population at large.

Holding Manufacturers Accountable

Paraquat manufacturers are well aware of the harmful effects of their product, and the studies which prove them. At the bare minimum, they owe it to those using this chemical to be completely transparent regarding the risks associated with its use. Many workers have expressed that they were completely unaware of the dangers of paraquat prior to use.

It is the manufacturers civil duty to create safe products and methods of use for consumers and those who live in close proximity. Unfortunately for those who have suffered tremendously, manufacturers are most often not being held accountable, and because of this, they feel comfortable carrying on with their malpractices.

While it should be the responsibility of overseeing agencies and lawmakers to enforce safety regulations surrounding these chemicals, those who have fallen victim to their refusal to do so seem to have undertaken that responsibility by default. And that’s where we come in.

Receiving Compensation

As we are dealing with large corporations who have access to deep wells of resources, working closely with an attorney can bring about a successful case, and well-deserved compensation.

If you or a loved one have worked with paraquat, or have lived within close proximity of a farm using it, and developed Parkinson’s disease or other illnesses, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, medical expenses and the unnecessary pain and suffering you’ve had to endure. We at Christian & Christian are here to support you through the process.

If you are interested in speaking with our legal team, send us a message or call (864) 408-8883 to schedule a free consultation with our attorneys.

In the News, Mass Tort Claims

Parkinson’s From Paraquat Exposure: Holding Manufacturers Accountable