Pesticide that increases Parkinson’s risk by 150% reapproved in the US

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has allowed the continued use of paraquat, a pesticide that increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease by 150%.

The pesticide – which has already been banned in 32 countries – was reapproved by the EPA in October as part of a review of the safety of all herbicides and pesticides in the US, a process which takes place every 15 years.

Many studies have shown that as well as increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, exposure to the pesticide is associated with other health issues and risk of death. Exposure to paraquat endangers both the farmers who use the pesticide, as well as the families who can be exposed to it through the air or transfers onto clothing or other materials.

In response to the reapproval, the Michael J Fox Foundation is calling on the Parkinson’s community to ask senators and representatives to support a bill banning paraquat from use in the country.

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