Dacthal Pesticide Lawsuit for DCPA Exposure During Pregnancy

If you were a pregnant farmworker exposed to the herbicide dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA), commonly known as Dacthal, and your baby has suffered health issues, you might be entitled to compensation.

We are no longer accepting Dacthal Pesticide cases.

Dacthal Pesticide Lawsuit for DCPA Exposure During Pregnancy
Pregnant farmworkers and pesticide applicators exposed to DCPA might be eligible to file a claim for birth defects and other injuries to their babies.

Who Can File a DCPA Dacthal Lawsuit?

If you meet all of the following criteria, you could be eligible to receive compensation in a DCPA pesticide lawsuit:

  • Women who, while pregnant, worked on a farm/nursery where the following vegetables were grown: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, bok choy, cabbage, cauliflower, or onion bulbs AND
  • Used DCPA for weed control (this includes applicators as well as workers who weeded, transplanted, tied, thinned, or harvested broccoli, Brussel sprouts, bok choy, cabbage, cauliflower, onion bulbs; AND
  • Whose child resulting from that pregnancy was born with any of the following: low birth weight, impaired brain development, decreased IQ, impaired motor skills, and/or decreased bone deposition.

Recent Developments: EPA Emergency Order on DCPA

Dacthal weedkiller lawsuits stem from a recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emergency order suspending all uses of DCPA. It’s the first time in 40 years the EPA has used its emergency suspension power to halt the use of a pesticide. This unprecedented action highlights the serious concerns about the herbicide’s safety, particularly for pregnant women and their unborn children. The EPA’s decision was based on mounting evidence that DCPA exposure can cause significant harm, including:

  • Birth defects
  • Developmental delays
  • Neurological issues
  • Other serious health problems

According to a press release issued by the Environmental Working Group, the EPA’s decision to suspend DCPA is long overdue. “For years, EWG and other public health advocates have warned about the serious risks the weedkiller poses to farmworkers, pregnant people and other vulnerable populations,” said EWG Senior Toxicologist Alexis Temkin, Ph.D. 

Where Is Dacthal Used?

The U.S. Geological Survey provides an interactive map that shows, year by year, where the Dacthal pesticide was used. The below map shows this data of widespread, high DCPA usage across the country in 1996.

DCPA Dacthal pesticide lawsuits - usage in the U.S., according to U.S. Geological Survey

The USGS also provides data on the types of crops on which Dacthal/DCPA was used in the U.S. over the years. Vegetables and fruit are the main crop on which this toxic herbicide has been used.

Dacthal and DCPA pesticide use on crops

How Did the EPA Decide to Suspend all Uses of DCPA?

To decide on its Emergency Order, the EPA talked to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to learn how farmers use DCPA and what other options they have. In 2013, the EPA asked AMVAC Chemical Corporation, the only company that makes DCPA, to provide over 20 studies to support the use of Dacthal.

These studies needed to include detailed research on how DCPA affects thyroid development and function in both adults and developing babies. The studies were due by January 2016. Many studies AMVAC submitted between 2013 and 2021 were not enough to meet the EPA’s requirements, and the important thyroid study and others were never submitted.

The Impact of DCPA Exposure

Dacthal has been in use for over 40 years, primarily on crops like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. Despite its widespread application, significant health concerns have emerged, particularly for pregnant women and their babies. DCPA exposure has been linked to:

  • Decreased IQ and Impaired Motor Skills: Studies have shown that exposure to DCPA can lead to decreased IQ and impaired motor skills, affecting children’s abilities later in life.
  • Impaired Brain Development: Exposure to DCPA during pregnancy can result in impaired brain development, which may lead to decreased IQ and other cognitive issues.
  • Birth Weight Impairment: Babies exposed to DCPA in utero could be born with low birth weight, further complicating their development and health.
  • Decreased bone deposition: Bone deposition is the process whereby new bone is formed.

The Science Behind the Risks of Dacthal

Research indicates that DCPA exposure can significantly disrupt fetal thyroid hormone levels, which are crucial for brain development. This disruption can result in long-term effects such as decreased IQ and impaired motor skills. These findings have been supported by studies conducted by the European Union and other regulatory bodies.

Regulatory Actions and Safety Concerns

The EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, along with other regulatory agencies, has raised alarms about the safety of DCPA. In response to these concerns, Dacthal has been removed from the market in several regions.

The European Union banned use of Dacthal on crops in 2009. Despite these measures, many families are still dealing with the consequences of past exposures.

How DCPA Affects Pregnant Women and Their Babies

DCPA is commonly used as a weedkiller in agriculture and residential areas. Pregnant women can be exposed to this harmful chemical.

Once absorbed into the body, DCPA can cross the placental barrier, potentially causing severe damage to the developing fetus. Studies have shown that exposure to DCPA during pregnancy can lead to:

  • Congenital anomalies: Structural defects present at birth
  • Developmental delays: Delayed growth and development milestones
  • Neurological issues: Problems with brain development and function

These health concerns can have lifelong implications for affected children and their families.

DCPA (brand name Dacthal) pesticide used as a pesticide in crops like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts and can cause health problems in fetuses and babies.
DCPA (brand name Dacthal) is used as a pesticide in crops like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts and can cause health problems in fetuses and babies.

What is DCPA and How is Dacthal Used?

DCPA, or dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate, is an herbicide commonly marketed under the brand name Dacthal. It is widely used in both agricultural and residential settings to control the growth of weeds. Dacthal is typically applied to:

  • Crops: Used in farms, fields, and nurseries growing crops like broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, onions, and other crops to prevent weed growth.
  • Residential Lawns and Gardens: Employed by homeowners and gardeners to maintain weed-free lawns, flower beds, and gardens.
  • Public Spaces: Utilized in parks, playgrounds, and other public areas to manage weed growth.

DCPA Residue Can Remain On Crops and Soil for 25 Days

While Dacthal is effective at controlling weeds, its use comes with significant risks, especially for pregnant women. When applied, DCPA can remain on plants and soil for an extended period, up to 25 days. Understanding these exposure pathways is crucial for protecting your family’s health.