Ohio Paraquat-Parkinson’s Lawyers

What is Paraquat?

Paraquat is a toxic, synthetic chemical compound that since the early 1960’s has been widely used in herbicides, primarily for weed and grass control.  In the United States, it is primarily available in liquid form, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency has classified it as “restricted use.”  Thus, Paraquat can be used only by people who are licensed applicators.

In the United States, Paraquat is quickly becoming one of our most-used herbicides. Since 2009, its use has risen nearly 200%, mostly in response to undesirable weeds that have developed a resistance to Roundup. This is in contrast to policies across Europe and China, where the herbicide has been banned due to the risks it poses.

Who is at risk?

Over 40% of the U.S. is farmland, with millions of Americans living near or working in the agriculture industry. Ohio is a national leader.  According to the United States Department of Agriculture, 44% of Ohio is considered prime farmland, and 99% of Ohio’s farms are owned by farm families.  Many of these families have been regularly exposed to herbicides such as Paraquat.

Paraquat is used on many crops including:

• Corn
• Cotton
• Guar
• Hay (alfalfa seed and clover)
• Orchard and vineyard crops
• Potatoes
• Soybeans
• Wheat

Farmers also use the chemical to assist in pasture renovation and before planting in “no-till” fields.

Because it is so toxic, Paraquat can only be used with a commercial license. It is not available for home use. It is also known as:

• Gramoxone
• Firestorm
• Parazone
• Helmquat
• Cyclone
• Para Shot

Who Should Worry About Paraquat Exposure?

Long-term exposure to low levels of Paraquat is common among certain populations, including:

• Agricultural farmers
• Farmhands working for companies that use Paraquat
• Workers that transfer Paraquat into tanks
• Certified Paraquat applicators
• Individuals and families who live near cropland or no-till farms

Thankfully, excess Paraquat binds to the soil instead of entering aquifers or wells. However, inhalation exposure is common for those who live or work near lands on which it is used.

Links Between Paraquat and Parkinson’s Disease

Multiple studies have shown links between long-term, low-level exposure to Paraquat and an increased risk of Parkinson’s. In fact, the herbicide’s original use restrictions were created in response to animal models of the disease. Multiple human studies performed since then have found individuals are roughly twice as likely to develop Parkinson’s if exposed even to low levels of the chemical. Those who have genetic mutations that predispose them to Parkinson’s are 11 times more likely to develop the disease when Paraquat enters the picture

While researcher continues into the causes and epidemiology of Parkinson’s disease, there is clear data showing the connection between Paraquat exposure and this condition. Anyone who develops Parkinson’s after living or working near the herbicide should reach out to see if they may be eligible to file a claim.

What losses can I recover if I bring a Paraquat Parkinson’s Claim?

Parkinson’s disease presents an overwhelming challenge for patients and their loved ones. If your family has been impacted by this disease and may have been exposed to Paraquat, you may have a claim.  Claims may include the following damages and losses:

• Past medical expense
• Future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Lost future potential earnings
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Decreased enjoyment of life

When you are facing a difficult diagnosis, making a legal claim can give you purpose. Clark Perdue has extensive experience handling claims for families who have suffered injury and loss caused by dangerous products.  Please contact us for more information.