Occupational exposure to manganese fumes emitted when filler materials are burned during welding has been related to the development of early Parkinson’s Disease or a similar condition called manganism in some welders.
A research team from Washington University found that some professional welders developed signs of Parkinson’s disease an average of 15 years earlier than the general population and suggested that this may be related to inhalation of manganese. While acknowledging the relationship between welding and manganism, the study concluded that welding could also increase the risk of early onset Parkinson’s disease. Doctors are now beginning to recognize manganese exposure from welding fumes as an environmental cause of Parkinson’s disease in welders.
Products liability lawsuits are being filed against manufacturers of welding supplies that contain toxic fillers responsible for manganese poisoning and early Parkinson’s in welders.