The most common brand name of paraquat-containing weed killers manufactured in the United States is Paraquat. Nevertheless, numerous other brand names contain paraquat dichloride, the main active ingredient of this toxic herbicide. Paraquat sprayed on crops becomes airborne during application and can drift to long distances from the crops to neighboring communities. Frequent exposure to this highly toxic product can lead to the development of Parkinson's disease.
Paraquat and other paraquat-containing products are currently used on more than 100 crops, including:
- cotton
- almonds
- barley
- corn
- peanuts
- rice
- soybeans
- sugarbeets
- sugarcane
- sunflowers
- vegetables
- wheat
The most significant risk of exposure to Paraquat is for farmworkers and individuals living, working, or attending schools near commercial farms. If you or a family member used Paraquat or were around it, know that your risk of developing Parkinson’s disease is high. Thereby, we recommend keeping a close eye on your and your loved one’s health to identify the early signs of this condition, which may include:
- tremor in arms, legs, chin, or head
- slowness of movement
- stiffness of the limbs and trunk
- impaired coordination
- impaired balance and dizziness
- difficulty in sleeping
Consequently, if you suspect that you or a family member is suffering from Parkinson’s disease, you should seek a second and even a third medical opinion, as misdiagnosis often occurs in individuals with this life-altering condition. An accurate diagnosis will help you receive the treatment you need, and it will also make you eligible for rightful compensation from the liable manufacturer.
