Since its creation in the early 1970s, Roundup weed killer has been a popular choice for homeowners and commercial farmers alike. Now Roundup’s parent company, Monsanto, is facing thousands of lawsuits alleging the herbicide causes significant health problems to people who have been exposed to it.
The primary ingredient in Roundup weed killer, glyphosate, is a powerful and effective chemical that is used as a broad-spectrum herbicide in residential lawns and gardens as well as commercial agricultural enterprises. Research into the health effects of glyphosate has found that high exposure leads to an increased risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer that targets the lymphatic system.
Because of the potential health hazards, glyphosate is banned or significantly restricted in 40 countries worldwide. However, it is still widely used in the United States, where it faces minimal federal regulation.
Several lawsuits filed allege that Monsanto was aware of the risks of glyphosate to human health and deliberately chose not to act on this information. However, Monsanto owner AG Bayer maintains that the product “can be used safely and that glyphosate is not carcinogenic.”
Despite the company’s remonstrations, courts have ordered Monsanto to pay billions of dollars in reparations to people who have contracted non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after significant exposure to glyphosate. Other lawsuits have reached significant settlements out of court.
If you or someone you know has faced health complications after high exposure to glyphosate-based weed killers, it is important to understand your rights and what you can expect from a lawsuit. Tamaki Law has experience with Roundup cancer lawsuits and knows what it takes to win these cases. Contact our offices today to learn more.