Monsanto’s Roundup weed killer is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world. Now there is evidence that Roundup may cause cancer in people who used it on a regular basis. Thousands of people have filed lawsuits across the country alleging that Monsanto failed to warn consumers of the increased risk of cancer associated with the use of Roundup.
Cancer Risk
In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a specialized intergovernmental agency within the World Health Organization (WHO), classified glyphosate as a “probable human carcinogen.” Glyphosate is the active ingredient in Roundup. IARC did an in-depth analysis of published peer-reviewed data to reach this conclusion. They found the cancer most closely associated with glyphosate is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
Monsanto has known for many years about the link between its Roundup formulation and cancer. Glyphosate is not the only dangerous chemical in Roundup. Roundup is composed of other toxic ingredients that work synergistically with glyphosate to increase its toxicity. In the late 1990s, Monsanto conducted internal reviews of the product and found that glyphosate caused genotoxicity in animals. It was recommended that further studies should be performed, and Monsanto refused.
In addition, in a 2008 study, researchers found that the use of Roundup for ten or more days in a year doubled an individual’s likelihood of developing Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Therefore, even people who used the weed killer occasionally around their home were still at risk of developing cancer.
Lawsuits Against Monsanto
Thousands of people who contracted non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after the use of Roundup in either their homes or their businesses have filed lawsuits. The litigation seeks to hold Monsanto accountable for failing to warn the public of the dangers of using Roundup. Monsanto knew for decades about the link between Roundup and cancer and yet refused to inform consumers and continued to market its product as safe.
Contact a Product Liability Attorney
If you have been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and have been exposed to Monsanto’s Roundup, you should have a product liability attorney evaluate your case. At Gregg F. Goldfarb, LLP, we can help you explore your options. Contact us online or call us at (305) 374-7000 to schedule a free consultation.