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What Diseases Does Paraquat Cause?
The American Journal of Epidemiology, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), Neurology, and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences have all published studies indicating a link between paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease.
The Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council submitted a letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in which it said, “Recent research links paraquat and several other herbicides to the development of Parkinson’s pathology and symptoms.” In the letter, the council urged the EPA to ban the use of paraquat in the U.S., which it still has not done.
Breathing in paraquat may also cause lung damage, eventually leading to an irreversible disease known as “paraquat lung”. Paraquat can damage the body when it touches the lining of the mouth, stomach, or intestines. You may also become severely ill if paraquat touches a cut on your skin.
How Long Does Paraquat Stay in Your System?
Paraquat can stay in your system for weeks or even months after exposure to the weed killer. The half-life of paraquat is approximately 2 weeks, which means it takes that long for half of the poison to be eliminated from your body.
How Do You Prove Paraquat Poisoning?
Physical symptoms of paraquat poisoning include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Fast heart rate
- Disorientation
Is There a Test for Paraquat Exposure?
If you believe you may have been exposed to paraquat or other similar herbicide, your doctor may order blood or urine tests to detect the presence of the chemical in your system. Chest x-rays, ECG (electrocardiogram, or heart tracing), or Bronchoscopy procedures (tube through the mouth and throat ) may also be used to view any lung damage from paraquat.
Who Qualifies for a Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease due to paraquat exposure, you may be eligible to file a paraquat lawsuit that can provide just compensation for your injuries. A paraquat settlement can help cover any medical expenses, lost wages (both past and future), pain and suffering, and more.
What is the Status of the Paraquat Lawsuit?
The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) consolidated all the lawsuits in the Northern District of California (MDL-3004). On June 1, 2022, these cases were moved to the Southern District of Illinois under Judge Nancy J. Rosenstengel.
FAQs
What precautions should be taken when handling Paraquat?
Use protective clothing, gloves, masks, and follow strict safety guidelines to minimize exposure risk while handling Paraquat.
Are there safer alternatives to Paraquat for weed control?
Yes, there are organic and less toxic alternatives available for weed control, reducing the risk of severe health effects.
What are the environmental impacts of Paraquat?
Paraquat is highly toxic to the environment, causing soil and water contamination and harming wildlife and ecosystems.
See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys have covered.
Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Attorneys
The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in federal lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new Parkinson’s disease cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one developed Parkinson’s disease or other serious side effects after being exposed to Paraquat herbicide, you should contact a lawyer immediately. You may be entitled to a Paraquat settlement by filing a suit and a lawyer can help.