Since the 1960s, paraquat has been a mainstay in US agricultural practices, and the use of the herbicide was deemed admissible under the supervision of a trained and licensed professional.
As time progressed and agricultural practices came under scrutiny, a concerning correlation between paraquat exposure and the early onset and development of Parkinson’s has become far too evident to ignore.
According to a study conducted in 2009, researchers have determined that exposure to paraquat at a distance of 1,600 feet from the source can increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s by 75%, with further studies revealing that exposure to the substance at a younger age can drastically increase said risk by a shocking 200% to 600%.
Farmworkers, pesticide appliers, and communities living near agricultural areas face the highest risk of exposure to paraquat, most commonly by inhaling fumes, in lieu of more stringent regulations pertaining to its safe use and the lack of protective equipment that should be provided to professionals that handle the substance.
Individuals that have been exposed over prolonged periods to paraquat experience damage to the neurons that regulate and produce dopamine, effectively paving the way to developing Parkinson’s, with some of the most commonly cited symptoms including
Furthermore, a recent study conducted on rodent models indicates that a prolonged decreased exposure to paraquat fumes was also correlated with the development of Parkinson’s, with the chemical entering the brain and other tissues, producing olfactory impairments, which is a tell-tale sign of the neurodegenerative condition.
It is of the utmost importance that individuals who have been exposed to paraquat seek immediate clinical attention to determine the extent of the potential damages that may have been caused. It is likewise advisable to seek the expertise of two or more professionals to have a comprehensive view of the situation and to closely observe if more advanced symptoms related to Parkinson’s manifest.
If you or a family member find that exposure to paraquat may have influenced or caused the development of Parkinson’s, it is important to know that you may be entitled to financial compensation from the liable companies that produced the substance. Our legal professionals will thoroughly analyze your particular situation, inform you regarding the eligibility of your claim, and advise you on how to best seek reparations for the damages that have been caused and encumber you.
With a successful track record of satisfied clients across 35 years, Atraxia Law provides assistance focused on bringing you peace of mind and the compensation that you deserve.
Dealing with Parkinson’s is a difficult task on its own, and we’re aware of the struggles it causes; that is why our professionals aim to ease your experience and help you file your paraquat claim with very little implication required from your side.