A new publication by PUBLIC EYE (Switzerland), PAN ASIA PACIFIC (PANAP) and PESTICIDE ACTION NETWORK UK (PAN UK): Adverse health effects caused by paraquat – A bibliography of documented evidence
Paraquat is now banned in over 40 countries, including the European Union and Switzerland, Syngenta’s home country, because of its adverse health effects.
Yet paraquat is still the third most widely used herbicide in the world. Syngenta and others continue to sell it in many developing countries, where its safe use has proven to be impossible. And still too many people die – or are severely injured – each year because of paraquat poisoning. Safe use of paraquat in developing countries is simply not happening on the ground.
This literature review, compiled by Richard Isenring, gives an update on the scientific information on the adverse health effects of paraquat. Over 200 scientific publications are referenced and summarized in the report – probably the most comprehensive paraquat literature review published in recent years.
The report shows evidence of the longer term, negative health effects of paraquat and its link with chronic diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease. However, it also clearly documents the positive health effects in countries that have implemented a ban on paraquat, or stricter regulations.
The case for a global phase out of paraquat is stronger today than ever.
UPDATE (Feb 2017): PAN Vietnam Welcomes the Ban of Paraquat and 2,4-D
