Welders and Parkinson's

Welders & Parkinson disease

New research shows welders are at a risk of developing Parkinson's disease and significantly earlier than the general population. As we know, genetics related cause is seen in a small number of patients. More than 80% of the patients lack any family history of this disease. Researchers found out that patients who were professional welders developed signs of PD an average of 15 years earlier than other patients.

One possible explanation is that welding fumes contain high levels of manganese, a mineral known to cause manganism (a disease that resembles PD) in miners who inhale large amounts of the mineral. 

Source

Welding Fumes and Gases ... Hazard Alert http://www.cpwr.com/hazpdfs/kfwelding.PDF

They say something in paint can cause 

flu-like symptoms ... 

and after the exposure, they go away.  

Not zinc ... 

most likely ethylene glycol monobutyl ether *

Check these basics - to find out

Welding produces metal fumes and gases that can make you sick. ... Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) says welding fumes may cause cancer

9-27-05