Residents of Cleveland and other parts of Ohio may want to learn more about the connection between a weed killer and Parkinson’s disease. Agricultural workers are especially at risk from exposure to paraquat and may have Parkinson’s disease from its exposure.
According to the National Law Review, agricultural workers may have entitlement to compensation from this weed killer, which has a ban in dozens of countries. However, in the United States, it is allowable, and its use is rising. Increased usage means potentially more cases of Parkinson’s disease.
What is this herbicide?
Manufacturers that have been cited in lawsuits include Syngenta, Growmark and Chevron U.S.A, Inc. Serious personal injury claims may result from the use of paraquat. It is one of the most popular weed killers, sold under the following names:
- Para-SHOT
- Helmquat
- Parazone
- Firestorm
- Ortho-Paraquat
- Quick-Quat
- Devour
- Blanco
Is it in the Roundup brand?
No, even though Roundup is the recipient of lawsuits, paraquat is not an ingredient. However, there has been a link between an ingredient in Roundup and cancer.
What are the signs of Parkinson’s disease?
It is a disorder that affects the nerve cells in a part of the brain that controls the neurochemical dopamine. Not enough dopamine in the brain, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation, leads to the symptoms of Parkinson’s, which include tremors, stiff limbs and problems with walking.
What are some other issues with Parkinson’s disease?
As it gets worse over time, the disease may cause other issues that do not connect to movement. Cognitive impairment, depression, sleep disorders and constipation are some of the problems that have an association with Parkinson’s.
Parkinson’s disease may be a side effect of contact with the weed killer paraquat. Exposure to this chemical may have severe consequences for agricultural workers and others. Until the EPA issues a ban on this chemical, workers should be aware.
