What to know about paraquat and Parkinson’s as Missouri lawmakers consider restrictions

What to know about paraquat and Parkinson’s as Missouri lawmakers consider restrictions

Author: St. Louis Public Radio March 10, 2026 Duration: 29:53
For years, Parkinson’s disease was thought to be primarily genetic. And while some cases are rooted in genetic changes, new studies suggest diagnoses of the disorder, which is the world’s fastest-growing brain disease, is largely driven by environmental toxins — specifically, long-term exposure to the herbicide paraquat. Reporter Mike Fitzgerald discusses why agricultural giant Syngenta is halting global production of the herbicide by the end of June 2026. This move follows massive legal pressure from nearly 6,500 lawsuits filed in East St. Louis federal court. Fitzgerald also talks about the growing push for a national paraquat ban, and why an upcoming Missouri statehouse hearing about the weed killer is critical.

Tune in to St. Louis on the Air for the conversations that define our city and region. Produced by St. Louis Public Radio, this daily podcast goes beyond the headlines to foster a genuine dialogue, one where community voices are central. Each episode gathers a range of perspectives-from everyday residents to experts and creators-to thoughtfully examine the issues, challenges, and innovations shaping life here. You might find yourself immersed in a discussion about local history one day and a deep dive into a groundbreaking scientific discovery the next. The program consistently makes space for the artists, musicians, and authors who contribute to the cultural fabric of the area. What you’ll hear is a respectful and honest exchange of ideas, reflecting the complex character of St. Louis itself. It’s a direct line to the stories of the people who live, work, and create in this community. For anyone curious about the forces at play in the region or simply wanting to feel more connected, this podcast serves as an essential, engaging resource. The result is a comprehensive audio portrait of a city in motion, delivered with the depth and nuance you’d expect from public radio.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

St. Louis on the Air
Podcast Episodes
St. Louis musicians shine in NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:40
Over 40 local artists entered into NPR’s 2026 Tiny Desk Contest. “St. Louis on the Air” producer Miya Norfleet and STLPR reporter Chad Davis talk about some of their favorite St. Louis submissions and the artists behind…
Key takeaways from Tuesday’s Missouri municipal election results [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:46
Missouri voters went to the polls Tuesday and weighed in on a slate of municipal races, including St. Louis’ overwhelming renewal of the 1% earnings tax and a closely watched Francis Howell school board race that signale…