Popular Weed Killer Potentially Linked to Cancer
We purchase products with the assumption that they are reasonably safe to use and will contain proper warning labels and instructions for use so that we can avoid unnecessary harm. Unfortunately, some consumer products are defective or present risks to users as a result of dangerous toxins.
Roundup, a popular weed killer that has been used by homeowners, agricultural workers, landscapers, and farmers across the U.S. to maintain the health of their lawns and produce, is currently under scrutiny for its potential to increase the risk of lymphoma or other forms of cancer. It has been alleged that Monsanto, the company that produces Roundup, failed to warn users of this risk.
If you used or are using Roundup and have been diagnosed with cancer, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Ashcraft & Gerel is currently representing clients in Fairfax and across the country in class actions against Monsanto. We have extensive experience in complex litigation involving toxins and hazardous chemicals, and we are no stranger to facing off against the most formidable opponents to uphold our clients’ rights.
What Risks Does Roundup Pose?
Roundup is an herbicide that contains the active ingredient glyphosate, which blocks an enzyme that unwanted weeds and grasses need to grow. It is used on lawns, golf courses, playgrounds, parks, and even commercial farms. Roundup is sprayed on over 80% of U.S. crops, including alfalfa, corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and canola.
In March 2015, the World Health Organization deemed glyphosate a “probable human carcinogen.” It has been alleged that Monsanto knew of glyphosate’s carcinogenic properties for years without disclosing this to consumers.
Inhalation and ingestion of Roundup may increase one’s risk of developing:
- Leukemia
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Mantle cell lymphoma
- Primary central nervous system lymphoma
- Follicular lymphoma
- B-cell lymphoma
- Cutaneous lymphoma
- Anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Persons at the highest risk are workers who inhale the weed killer while spraying it. This may include agricultural workers, landscapers, farmers, and nursery workers.
Exposing the Roundup Cancer Cover-Up
It is suspected that Monsanto not only knew of the cancer risks associated with Roundup but also took steps to cover it up. It has also been alleged that one or more persons at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may have been involved, downplaying the cancer risk and even collaborating with Monsanto to try to discredit findings by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
If you have been exposed to Roundup and developed lymphatic cancer, you may be able to file a class action against responsible parties for their involvement. If successful, you could recover compensation for your medical care, pain and suffering, and possibly more.
