Does paraquat cause Parkinson’s?

Paraquat, also known as Gramoxone, Helmquat, Firestorm, Parazone, and paraquat dichloride, has been linked to a highly increased risk for Parkinson’s disease. It is a strong herbicide that’s been used since the 1960’s in the United States and around the world in agricultural settings. Paraquat is recognized by the EPA as a restricted chemical, meaning that only licensed applicators can use it on crops. It also means that exposure to this product is toxic for people who encounter it.

Recent evidence has linked paraquat to an increased risk for Parkinson’s disease, with the most at-risk group for contracting Parkinson’s being those licensed applicators. Not only is paraquat extremely poisonous—it’s deadly at doses as low as one teaspoon—it builds up in the body over time, which can slowly but inexorably lead to Parkinson’s disease in those people who work closely with paraquat for long periods of time. If this sounds like you or a loved one, you need an experienced mass tort attorney on your side!