Paraquat is Dangerous: Why is this Chemical Still in Demand?
Most of us have heard about the dangers of herbicides and pesticides, particularly those living in farm country. Virtually everyone has heard about the dangers of, say, Roundup. But many people don’t know about one of the most dangerous herbicides in use in the U.S., a chemical known as Paraquat. Research on Paraquat exposure shows a link between the herbicide and Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder affecting movement, coordination, balance, and speech, causing neurons in the brain to die.
What is Paraquat?
Paraquat is an herbicide commonly used to control weeds and grasses. But many people haven’t heard of Paraquat because the chemical is only approved for commercial agriculture. Farmers typically use the herbicide on cotton, soybeans, and corn. The EPA first approved the use of Paraquat in 1964, and Imperial Chemical Industries first manufactured the chemical under the brand name Gramoxone. However, many chemical manufacturers now make other versions of the chemical. Commercial farmers often use Paraquat and its copycats as a supplement for glyphosate-resistant weeds, which is the active ingredient in Roundup. Paraquat breaks down quickly in the soil and typically kills weeds on contact.
Why is Paraquat Dangerous?
Aside from research linking Paraquat to Parkinson’s Disease, the chemical is dangerous in other ways. If someone accidentally ingests or inhales, Paraquat, the chemical is deadly. Even a small amount of Paraquat can lead to organ failure and death within just a few hours.The most common route of accidental Paraquat exposure is through inhaling it or contact with the skin. Only commercial farmers can obtain a license to use the chemical, but anyone applying it must use chemical-resistant gloves, an air-purifying respirator, safety glasses, and a chemical apron. Anyone not complying with the necessary safety precautions can face deadly Paraquat exposure. Moreover, people nearby during Paraquat application, especially aerial crop-spraying, can be accidentally exposed.Paraquat manufacturers are facing more than 600 lawsuits in federal and state courts across the U.S. Additionally, more than 30 countries, including China, have banned the use of Paraquat. Nevertheless, a study recently published by Decisive Market Insights indicates that the Paraquat market will be worth about $41 million by 2028.
Call the Madeksho Law Firm
If you or a loved one have faced paraquat exposure or poisoning, call the Madeksho Law Firm a call at 1-888-910-6376 or contact us online. Your consultation is free, and you don’t pay a fee unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
