The Connection Between Roundup and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)

When you see a clump of weeds on your property, you probably reach for some weedkiller without much more thought. After all, isn’t it better to get rid of those pesky weeds than see them for another minute? Unfortunately, household weed killers can pose serious threats to your long-term health. Roundup and similar weed-killers contain glyphosate, which is effective but also linked to certain cancers, specifically non-Hodgkin lymphoma. You may be able to file a claim for compensation if you suffered injury or toxic exposure from these products.

What is Glyphosate?

Glyphosate is a commonly used broad-spectrum herbicide used to kill weeds. The chemical works to block the active production of the critical enzymes that weeds require to grow. After using glyphosate products, weeds typically die no more than a few weeks later. In the United States alone, there are over 750 products that contain glyphosate. By far, the most well-known of these products is the Monsanto-manufactured weed killer Roundup. However, recent studies have found that glyphosate increases user’s risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma up to 41%.

What is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)?

Accounting for 4% of all cancer diagnoses, non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the most common cancer in the United States. While there are more than 70 types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, it is largely characterized as a group of cancers that develop around the lymphatic system. This cancer develops when the body produces too many white blood cells, or leukocytes. When diagnosing the condition, the cancer is classified into one of three groups, depending on the type of cell the cancer first manifested as. The three groups are: T-cell lymphoma, B-cell lymphoma, and NK-cell lymphoma. Out of the three, B-cell is the most prevalent.

What is the Link Between Roundup and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)?

So, what exactly is the link between glyphosate, Roundup, and non-Hodgkin Lymphoma? Research on the full effects of glyphosate is still ongoing. However, major health organizations around the world have found the evidence convincing enough to classify glyphosate as a carcinogen.

While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States does not classify glyphosate as a carcinogen, more than 30 countries across the globe have banned or heavily regulated the chemical due to the potential health risks it can impose on users. Multiple lawsuits asserting a link between Roundup and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma have ruled in favor of the plaintiffs.

How to Protect Yourself Against Glyphosate Health Risks From Roundup

If you or someone you know regularly uses weedkillers containing glyphosate and are worried about the health risks associated with using the chemical, there are a few steps you can take to protect against risks. To begin with, always wear appropriate protective equipment when using the chemical. Additionally, be sure to properly dispose of the herbicide, ensuring you are keeping the chemical out of waterways and protecting yourself while doing so.

If this is the first time you are hearing about the link between glyphosate Roundup and non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, or fear you might already be suffering from using the chemical, do not be afraid to reach out to the qualified product liability lawyers at Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law. We fully understand the impact of this type of chemical exposure and are prepared to fight for you. If we do not recover for you, you owe us absolutely nothing. Call us to get started today with a free consultation.