Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological disorder affecting the movement of the body. Currently, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. However, proper treatment may significantly improve the symptoms. The early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are often barely noticeable but progressively become worse over time.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Early signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may include:
- Tremors
- Slowed Movement
- Rigid Muscles
- Impaired Balance and Stooping Posture
- Changes in Handwriting
- Loss of Smell
- Trouble Sleeping
- Constipation
- Speech Changes
- Masked Face
- Dizziness or Fainting
Primary Occupational Exposures Linked to Parkinson’s
Railroad Herbicide Exposures
The railroads rely on herbicides to control vegetation on mainline tracks, at rail crossings, and inside rail yards. Most railroads spray their entire system with herbicides at least twice per year. As a result, these herbicides fill the air and dust that is inhaled by:
- Brakemen
- Conductors
- Locomotive engineers
- Car department employees
- Members of the maintenance of way (track) department
Exposure to herbicides has been linked to a significantly elevated risk of developing neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, as well as various cancers, including Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, and laryngeal cancer. Below, we explore a couple of specific herbicides in more detail.
Paraquat
Paraquat is an extremely potent herbicide that has been a favorite of the railroads for decades. Key facts about Paraquat include:
- Lethal toxicity: Even a small sip would be fatal to an adult
- International bans: Its use has been banned in more than 30 countries, including China
- Cost-driven usage: Paraquat, in addition to being deadly, is cheap, making it attractive to railroads
- Continued exposure: Rail tracks across the United States are still liberally doused with this deadly chemical cocktail
The connection between Paraquat and Parkinson’s disease is well-established. A 2009 American Journal of Epidemiology Study states that exposure to paraquat within 1,600 feet increased the risk of Parkinson’s disease by 75%. Individuals exposed at age 60 or younger were found to be at much greater risk.
2,4-D
The herbicide 2,4-D (also commonly called amine) is another enormously popular herbicide used by the railroads since 1945. Like Paraquat, 2,4-D is cheap and effective.
Research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health monitored Parkinson’s disease incidence across Louisiana from 2006 to 2012. The study found that the risk of Parkinson’s disease was much greater in agricultural areas where farmers were using 2,4-D, Paraquat, and other herbicides linked to the disease.
Chlorinated Solvent Exposure
Railroad workers have historically been exposed to chlorinated solvents, which are now being linked to the development of Parkinson’s disease. These powerful chemicals were used to break down grime and grease on locomotives and railcars, putting machinists, pipefitters, and car shop workers at particular risk.
Welding Fume Exposure
Welding fumes represent another significant exposure linked to Parkinson’s disease among railroad workers. These fumes contain metallic oxides, silicates, and fluorides that can be inhaled and contribute to neurological damage over time.
Important Considerations
Time Limits for Filing Claims
Railroad workers diagnosed with Parkinson’s have three years to file a lawsuit from:
- The date of diagnosis, OR
- The date when they learn of the connection between their railroad exposures and their disease
This makes it crucial to act promptly if you suspect your Parkinson’s diagnosis is related to workplace exposures.
The Future of Railroad Parkinson’s Litigation
As the medical links between Parkinson’s disease and railroad worker exposures to chlorinated solvents, herbicides, and welding fumes continue to strengthen, the railroad industry will likely face increasing litigation in this field. The combination of:
- Growing scientific evidence
- Historical documentation of unsafe practices
- Industry studies showing elevated risk
- Successful verdicts in related neurological injury cases
All point to the validity of these claims and the importance of holding railroads accountable for worker safety.
Take Action If You’ve Been Diagnosed
The evidence is clear: railroad workers face significantly elevated risks for Parkinson’s disease due to decades of exposure to toxic chemicals. While the railroads prioritized cost savings, workers paid the price with their health. If you’re among those affected, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.
If you suspect that your illness could be related to your railroad exposures to solvents, herbicides, or welding fumes, call Hughes Law Offices today to speak to an attorney. Your time to file a lawsuit is limited. Call 312-741-1456 today or contact us online.
