Parkinson's Disease Caused By Weed Killer Paraquat

Watching a loved one suffer from Parkinson's disease is frustrating and often quite sad. There is no cure for this chronic disease and the symptoms progressively worsen. Most recognizably, a person suffers from tremors and uncontrolled body movements. More than 1.2 million Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson's and the numbers are rapidly increasing. Scientists recognize genetics as a factor for some individuals, but numerous studies point to chemicals — such as the herbicide Paraquat — as a large contributor to the increase in Parkinson's cases. The manufacturers of these chemicals have also known of the dangers for many decades. Lawsuits are now being filed to hold these companies responsible and to compensate their victims.

A National Institute of Health study found that people who used Paraquat developed Parkinson's disease approximately 2.5 times — or 250% — more often than non-users. Makers of Paraquat, Syngenta and Chevron, knew in 1969 that Paraquat could enter the brain and cause tissue damage. Such damage can lead to Parkinson's, affecting movement, often in the form of tremors, stiffness, or loss of balance.

Paraquat dichloride, more commonly referred to as "paraquat," is a highly toxic herbicide used to control weeds in many farming and commercial groundskeeping settings, in addition to being sprayed as a pre-harvest desiccant on some crops such as cotton. In the US, only certified applicators may purchase and use the product. Paraquat has been sold in the U.S. for nearly sixty years — but is currently banned around the world in more than 30 countries, including China. In America, it remains widely used, but it is not sold for home use due to its toxicity.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that "one sip can kill." Paraquat is also known to cause liver, heart and kidney failure, eye and skin damage, and brain diseases such as Parkinson's. If inhaled in sufficient concentration it will lead to asphyxiation and death. In some countries, because the liquid is so toxic, it is commonly used as a method of suicide by drinking it. In the United States, Paraquat is often colored blue and mixed with a strong odor to prevent accidental consumption.

Thousands of victims from the effects of Paraquat are eligible to file a lawsuit. People who can identify their working directly with Paraquat — perhaps as a mixer or person who sprayed the chemical — along with being diagnosed by a doctor as either having Parkinson's disease or exhibiting symptoms of the disease, may qualify. Some people who may have had incidental exposure, such as someone living next to a farm that uses Paraquat where the spray drifts toward their home, may also be considered in certain circumstances.

Not everyone exhibits symptoms of Parkinson's disease similarly. A doctor is needed for a qualified diagnosis. Some of the symptoms may include:

• Muscle stiffness
• Decreased movements, including slower walking or reduced blinking
• Involuntary shaking or tremors
• Difficulty with balance and coordination
• Constipation and low blood pressure
• Sexual changes and increased sweating
• Urination problems
• Apathy and cognitive issues
• Mood disturbances and sleep problems
• Loss of smell, slurring words, choking, and dry eyes

Some of the herbicides that contain Paraquat or are sold under a different name include: Amantadine, Apokyn, Artane, Aziliect, Cogentin, Elepryl, Kynmobi, Sinemet, Mirapex, Neupro, Nourizanz, Reqip, Xadagao, Zelepar, Blanco, Bonfire, Cyclone SL, Devour, Firestorm, Gramaxone, Helmquat, Para-SHOT, Parazone, and Quik-Quat.

One of the makers of Paraquat facing litigation, Syngenta, says, "The Syngenta AG group strongly believes that the claims are without merit and is vigorously defending against the actions." However, many legal experts and scientists believe this and other companies should be forced to pay for the damages it's believed they caused for so many people.

Herbicide applicators — including farm workers or groundskeepers (such as on golf courses) — and some property owners living near farms using Paraquat who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease may be entitled to substantial financial compensation.

The Cohen Hirsch Law Firm is assisting individuals who are suffering with Parkinson's disease from the effects of Paraquat. There is no risk or cost in contacting us to discuss your situation and there are no upfront fees. The Cohen Hirsch Law Firm is recognized for its expertise in handling this type of case and urges victims to reach out today. Contact us for a free consultation. www.cohenhirsch.com