April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about Parkinson’s disease, its potential causes, ongoing research, and the resources available to those affected.
Parkinson’s disease is a slow-developing neurodegenerative disorder that predominantly impacts dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. It’s commonly associated with tremors, gait and balance issues, and limb rigidity.
Established by the Parkinson’s Foundation, the month-long observance aims to deepen public understanding of this progressive neurological disorder and the factors that may contribute to its development — including environmental exposures like the herbicide paraquat.
Paraquat exposure has been associated with a 2.5x increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, according to Environmental Health Perspectives.
As research continues to evolve, the role of environmental exposures in Parkinson’s disease is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. For cases involving paraquat exposure, families may be eligible for compensation from legal claims.
When Is Parkinson’s Awareness Month?
Every year, Parkinson’s Awareness Month takes place in April. This month was chosen because it coincides with the birthday of Dr. James Parkinson, who was the first to describe Parkinson’s Disease in an 1817 article titled “An Essay on the Shaking Palsy.”
Parkinson’s Awareness Month brings together patients, families, caregivers, and researchers to share experiences, highlight ongoing challenges, and encourage investment in research and support services for those living with the disease.
Environmental Triggers of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 1 million people in the United States, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation. Only about 10–15% of cases are linked to genetics, while the majority may be influenced by environmental factors.
Environmental risk factors for Parkinson’s include:
- Heavy metal exposure to metals like manganese, which may impact neurological function
- Occupational exposure to toxins, especially in farming, welding, and industrial settings
- Exposure to the herbicide paraquat, which is also sold under the brand name Gramoxone®
In many cases, exposure to these environmental triggers is entirely preventable. In fact, thousands of Parkinson’s patients have filed lawsuits against companies that manufactured and sold the herbicide, claiming they failed to adequately warn users about the risks.
During Parkinson’s Awareness Month, sharing information about these potential environmental triggers can play an important role in increasing understanding of the disease and helping protect others from possible harm.
Paraquat & Parkinson’s Disease: The Dangers of a Common Herbicide
Paraquat is one of the most widely used herbicides in the U.S., with approximately 10 million pounds applied to American crops each year. It’s primarily used to kill grasses and weeds on commercial soybean, corn, and cotton farms.
Yet studies have found a link between paraquat and Parkinson’s disease, with exposure to the herbicide more than doubling the risk of Parkinson’s, according to Environmental Health Perspectives.
Paraquat exposure risk is highest among:
- Farm workers and agricultural laborers
- Pesticide applicators
- Individuals living near treated fields
- Those involved in mixing, handling, or spraying herbicides
As of 2026, more than 70 countries have banned paraquat over health concerns like Parkinson’s disease, but this toxic herbicide remains legal in the U.S.
However, multiple states have taken steps to restrict or ban the use of paraquat in order to reduce exposure risks and protect their communities.
How to Get Involved During Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month
Parkinson’s Awareness Month is not only a time to learn more about the disease, but also an opportunity to support individuals and families impacted by it.
There are several meaningful ways to take action:
- Advocate for stronger regulations on harmful herbicides, including supporting efforts to limit or ban paraquat use in the United States.
- Support Parkinson’s research by donating to organizations such as the Michael J. Fox Foundation or the Parkinson’s Foundation.
- Participate in clinical research studies if you are eligible, helping advance understanding of the disease.
- Share educational resources about Parkinson’s disease and environmental risk factors within your community and online.
- Use social media to raise awareness using hashtags such as #ParkinsonsAwarenessMonth.
“Parkinson’s Awareness Month is more than a month. It’s a call to action — and our opportunity to answer it with everything we’ve got.”
– Michael J. Fox Foundation
By raising awareness, supporting those affected, and advancing research into both the causes and treatment of Parkinson’s disease, we can help work toward a future where more people receive earlier diagnosis, better care, and greater support.
Sokolove Law: Supporting Parkinson’s Patients Nationwide
Parkinson’s disease is a life-altering diagnosis — and, in some cases, it may have been preventable. At Sokolove Law, our paraquat attorneys are committed to holding negligent herbicide companies accountable for the harm they’ve caused.
Find out what our paraquat law firm has to offer:
- No upfront costs or hourly fees
- The ability to help families in all 50 states
- Over $10.3 Billion total secured for clients injured through no fault of their own
With more than 45 years of experience handling toxic exposure cases, our team understands how to investigate complex claims and pursue accountability on behalf of individuals and families.
Contact Sokolove Law now if you or a loved one was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after exposure to paraquat. We’re prepared to fight for you.
