
What Cancers Are Included in the Roundup Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer after using Roundup, you may be wondering: what cancers are included in the Roundup lawsuit? With thousands of lawsuits filed against Monsanto (now owned by Bayer), the maker of Roundup, many individuals are seeking compensation for health issues linked to the herbicide’s active ingredient, glyphosate. This article explains which cancers qualify for Roundup lawsuits, the science behind the claims, and how you can take action if affected.
Cancers Linked to Roundup Lawsuits
The following cancers are most commonly included in Roundup lawsuits, based on scientific studies and legal precedents:
1. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system, is the most frequently cited cancer in Roundup lawsuits. Studies, including a 2019 meta-analysis published in Mutation Research/Reviews in Mutation Research, found a statistically significant link between glyphosate exposure and an increased risk of NHL. Subtypes of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that may qualify include:
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)
- Follicular lymphoma
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
- Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL)
Many successful Roundup lawsuits, such as the 2018 case of Dewayne Johnson, involved plaintiffs diagnosed with NHL after years of using Roundup.
2. Other Lymphomas
While non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the primary focus, other lymphomas may also qualify, depending on the case. These include:
- Hodgkin lymphoma: Less commonly linked but still considered in some lawsuits.
- T-cell lymphomas: Certain subtypes have been associated with glyphosate exposure in preliminary studies.
3. Leukemia
Some Roundup lawsuits include claims related to leukemia, particularly chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), which is often classified as a subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. A 2014 study in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health suggested a potential link between glyphosate and increased leukemia risk, though more research is needed.
4. Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow, has been cited in some Roundup lawsuits. Research, such as a 2003 study in Occupational and Environmental Medicine, indicates a possible association between pesticide exposure, including glyphosate, and multiple myeloma.
5. Other Potential Cancers
While non-Hodgkin lymphoma dominates Roundup litigation, other cancers may be considered if there’s evidence of glyphosate exposure and a medical diagnosis. These include:
- Bone cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Skin cancer (e.g., cutaneous T-cell lymphoma)
However, these cancers are less commonly included, and eligibility depends on case-specific factors like exposure history and medical documentation.
Who Can File a Roundup Lawsuit?
To pursue a Roundup lawsuit, you typically need to meet these criteria:
- Diagnosis: A confirmed diagnosis of a cancer linked to glyphosate, such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Exposure history: Evidence of significant Roundup use or exposure (e.g., as a farmer, landscaper, or gardener).
- Causation: A plausible link between your cancer diagnosis and Roundup exposure, often supported by medical records and expert testimony.
Individuals at highest risk include:
- Agricultural workers: Those who regularly sprayed Roundup over months or years.
- Landscapers and gardeners: Frequent users of Roundup without adequate protective gear.
- Residents near agricultural areas: People exposed through environmental drift or contaminated water.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Roundup Lawsuits
The link between Roundup and cancer stems from several key studies:
- IARC (2015): Classified glyphosate as a "probable human carcinogen" based on animal studies and human epidemiology.
- 2019 Meta-Analysis: Found a 41% increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma among those with high glyphosate exposure.
- Agricultural Health Study (2018): Suggested a potential association between glyphosate and certain lymphomas, though results were mixed.
Despite these findings, Monsanto and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintain that glyphosate is safe when used as directed. However, courts have awarded billions in damages to plaintiffs, citing Monsanto’s failure to warn about risks.
What to Do If You Have a Qualifying Cancer
If you’ve been diagnosed with a cancer potentially linked to Roundup, follow these steps:
- Gather medical records: Document your cancer diagnosis and treatment history.
- Detail your exposure: Record details of your Roundup use, including frequency, duration, and protective measures (or lack thereof).
- Consult an attorney: An experienced Roundup lawyer can evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
- Act quickly: Statutes of limitations vary by state, so don’t delay seeking legal advice.
Conclusion
So, what cancers are included in the Roundup lawsuit? Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and its subtypes, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, are the most commonly included, with some cases involving multiple myeloma or other lymphomas. If you’ve been diagnosed with one of these cancers after using Roundup, you may be eligible for compensation. Understanding your legal options is the first step toward justice.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer after Roundup exposure, Clinton O. Middleton, Attorney at Law, is here to help. As an experienced Roundup attorney, he can guide you through the legal process to seek the compensation you deserve. Call (703) 777-9630 or fill out the form today to get started.