Parkinson's Disease Warning: First US State Bans Weed Killer Linked to Brain Disorder

In a historic move aimed at protecting public health, Vermont has become the first US state to ban paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide that has been linked in several scientific studies to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. The ban, which takes effect on November 1, is being celebrated by health advocates who hope it encourages other states to reassess the use of the controversial chemical. Parkinson's disease affects nearly one million Americans and is one of the fastest-growing neurological disorders worldwide. While age and genetics are well-known risk factors, mounting evidence suggests environmental exposures - including certain pesticides, may also contribute to the disease.Also read: Lionel Richie's Mid-Concert Dizziness Highlights

Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

What is paraquat?

Paraquat is a fast-acting herbicide introduced in the United States in 1964. It is commonly used to control weeds in soybean, corn, cotton, apple, and grape farming. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, more than 10 million pounds of paraquat were used across the U.S. in 2018, with the highest usage reported in the Midwest, South, and California. Although highly effective, paraquat is also one of the most toxic herbicides available. Accidental ingestion can be fatal, and repeated occupational exposure has raised concerns among scientists studying long-term neurological health.

Why is paraquat linked to Parkinson's disease?

The connection between paraquat and Parkinson's disease has been debated for years. Several epidemiological studies have reported that farmers, pesticide applicators, and people living near agricultural areas where paraquat is sprayed may face a higher risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Researchers believe paraquat may damage dopamine-producing neurons by increasing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, two biological processes associated with Parkinson's disease. However, the evidence remains controversial. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently reviewing paraquat's safety and has stated that it has not established a clear causal link between paraquat exposure and Parkinson's disease. Likewise, Swiss agrochemical company Syngenta, a longtime manufacturer of paraquat, maintains that decades of scientific research have not conclusively proven that paraquat causes the disease, although it has announced plans to stop manufacturing and selling the herbicide globally.

Countries that have already banned paraquat

While paraquat remains widely used in the United States, several countries have already prohibited its use due to health and environmental concerns. These include the European Union, the United Kingdom, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Why is the ban important?

Health advocates view Vermont's decision as a preventive public health measure rather than proof that paraquat directly causes Parkinson's disease. The new law also provides a transition period for fruit growers. Farmers using paraquat on orchards, berries, and small fruit crops will have until 2030 to switch to alternative weed-control methods. Supporters argue the ban will reduce long-term exposure among farmworkers and nearby communities. Critics, however, warn that paraquat is an important agricultural tool and replacing it could increase farming costs through more expensive herbicides, mechanical tilling, crop rotation, or manual weed removal.

Recognising Parkinson's disease symptoms

Parkinson's disease develops gradually and often worsens over time. Common symptoms include:

• Tremors or shaking
• Slowed movement
• Muscle stiffness
• Balance and coordination problems
• Changes in handwriting
• Soft or slurred speech
• Reduced facial expression
• Sleep disturbances
• Depression and anxiety

Although scientists continue to debate whether paraquat directly causes Parkinson's disease, many experts agree that reducing unnecessary exposure to potentially harmful chemicals is a sensible public health strategy. As regulators continue reviewing the evidence, Vermont's decision could become a turning point in how pesticide safety is evaluated across the United States.