Paraquat and Parkinson’s: Is There a Link?

Is there a connection between the widely used herbicide paraquat and the development of Parkinson’s disease? The answer, according to a growing body of scientific evidence and a surge of legal actions, is a resounding “possibly.” Millions of pounds of this chemical are still being sprayed in the US annually, posing serious threats to agricultural workers and nearby communities. This blog post will explore the potential link between paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease, examining the science, the legal landscape, and what you should do if you believe you’ve been affected.

The Science Behind the Link

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, causing symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, slowed movement, and balance problems. While the exact cause of Parkinson’s is unknown, research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors play a role.

Paraquat, a non-selective herbicide used to control weeds, has been identified as a potential environmental risk factor for Parkinson’s disease. Here’s how:

Oxidative Stress: Paraquat exposure can lead to oxidative stress, a process where harmful molecules called free radicals overwhelm the body’s natural defenses. This imbalance can damage cells, particularly dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. The loss of these neurons is a hallmark of Parkinson’s disease.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Animal studies have shown that paraquat can cause mitochondrial dysfunction, disrupting the energy production within cells. This can further contribute to the damage and death of dopamine-producing neurons.
Direct Neurotoxicity: Paraquat’s structure is similar to MPTP, a known neurotoxin that can cause parkinsonism. Studies in rodents have shown that paraquat exposure can cause lesions in the substantia nigra, the area of the brain affected by Parkinson’s disease.
Inhalation: A 2021 study demonstrated that breathing in concentrates that contain paraquat causes the chemicals to travel through the olfactory bulb, bypass the blood-brain barrier, and enter all brain regions. Research connects inhaling weed killers like paraquat with olfactory impairment, which often indicates the onset of Parkinson’s disease.

Several studies have strengthened the link between paraquat and Parkinson’s:

A 2011 study showed a link between paraquat use and Parkinson’s disease in farm workers.
A 2013 meta-analysis published in Neurology found that “exposure to paraquat … was associated with about a 2-fold increase in risk” of Parkinson’s disease.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) completed the Farming and Movement Evaluation (FAME) study in 2011. According to its results, you are almost twice as likely to develop Parkinson’s disease if you’ve been exposed to paraquat or a similar herbicide such as rotenone.
A 2009 study found that living within 1600 feet of a facility that uses paraquat can increase your risk of Parkinson’s disease by 75%, especially when exposed at a younger age.
A 2019 study found that people exposed to Paraquat had a 25% higher chance of getting Parkinson’s, and the risk goes up with more exposure.

Who Is at Risk?

While anyone exposed to paraquat could potentially be at risk, certain groups face a higher likelihood of exposure:

Agricultural Workers: Farmers, pesticide applicators, and other agricultural workers who handle paraquat directly are at the greatest risk.
People Living Near Agricultural Fields: Those who live, work, or go to school near fields where paraquat is sprayed may be exposed through drift.
Factory Employees: Workers involved in the manufacturing or packaging of paraquat-containing products could also be at risk.

The Legal Landscape

The growing body of evidence linking paraquat to Parkinson’s disease has led to a surge in lawsuits against paraquat manufacturers, including Syngenta and Chevron. These lawsuits allege that the manufacturers knew about the risks but failed to warn users.

Basis of the Lawsuits: Paraquat lawsuits claim that long-term exposure causes Parkinson’s disease and that manufacturers failed to warn users about the herbicide’s long-term neurological risks.
Who Can File: You may qualify to file a paraquat lawsuit if you were exposed to the herbicide and subsequently developed Parkinson’s disease. Exposure can occur through direct contact, inhalation, accidental ingestion, or proximity to areas where the chemical is used.
Settlements: On April 14, 2025, an agreement was reached between plaintiffs’ leadership and defendants (Syngenta & Chevron) to settle most of the Paraquat cases involving plaintiffs with Parkinson’s. This settlement is expected to cover cases in the MDL (Multi-District Litigation) and may also include some state court actions.

What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed

If you have been exposed to paraquat and are concerned about your risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, here are some steps you can take:

Consult a Doctor: Talk to your doctor about your exposure history and any symptoms you may be experiencing. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage Parkinson’s disease.
Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of your exposure, including dates, locations, and the products you used. This information can be valuable if you decide to pursue legal action.
Seek Legal Advice: If you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and believe it may be linked to paraquat exposure, contact an attorney experienced in toxic tort litigation. They can evaluate your case and help you understand your legal options.

The Future of Paraquat

The controversy surrounding paraquat has led to increased scrutiny of its use and safety. While the herbicide remains legal in the United States, it has been banned in dozens of other countries, including the European Union and China.

The EPA is currently reviewing the effects of paraquat and deciding whether to further regulate the product. In the meantime, it’s crucial to stay informed about the risks and take steps to protect yourself and your community.

Seeking Justice and Compensation

For those exposed to Paraquat and suffering from Parkinson’s disease, seeking legal action may provide a path to justice and compensation. An experienced Paraquat Parkinson’s disease attorney can help victims build a strong case by collecting vital medical evidence, proving exposure, and navigating the legal system. Securing legal representation may greatly increase the chances of receiving fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney to discuss your specific situation and legal options.