Technology has created a vast range of products that make our lives easier, from the food that we eat to the materials we use to build roads, houses and vehicles. For the most part, these products are harmless, and some even enhance health and wellness. There are cases, however, where a product does a great deal of harm. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for many people to fall ill before a connection is made and action is taken. An example is found in the connection between the herbicide Roundup and cancer.
What is Roundup?
Roundup Weed and Grass Killer is an herbicide that effectively kills certain plants, while allowing others to thrive. Roundup is used by landscapers, agricultural workers and farmers around the world. It is manufactured by Monsanto, which is a giant in the agrichemical field, and the primary active ingredient in Roundup is glyphosate. Recent research has found a link between glyphosate and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Monsanto‘s Litigation History
Monsanto has a long history of being sued for various products. The company created the artificial sweetener saccharin, followed by another sweetener called aspartame. Both products were found to have toxic effects. Monsanto is also the company that created polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) which were eventually banned.
Roundup and Cancer
As more and more reports came in suggesting that agricultural workers were developing cancer at high rates, researchers discovered that glyphosate was “probably carcinogenic.” Lab animals developed cancer when exposed to the chemical, and in lab testing human cells displayed damage to the structure of DNA. Product liability and personal injury lawsuits have been filed against Monsanto, based on the fact that the company failed to provide adequate warning about the known risks.
One lawsuit claims that not only did Monsanto knowingly deceive consumers about the links between their product and an elevated risk of cancer, it also engaged in a “prolonged campaign of misinformation”to convince the public that Roundup was safe.
Litigation Efforts Increase
Currently, there are multiple different suits ongoing, with more and more individuals joining in every day. It is estimated that as many as 700 lawsuits are pending, many on behalf of clients who believe that their non-Hodgkin lymphoma was brought on by exposure to Roundup. It is believed that these suits may be the largest mass tort litigation to occur since the asbestos lawsuits.
What to do if You’ve Been Exposed to Roundup
Individuals who have been exposed to Roundup Weed and Grass Killer should make every effort to ensure that they are in good health. That means going in to have regular health screening, and following up with any additional testing recommended by their medical team. If cancer is detected, the first step is to seek immediate medical care, and to follow your doctor’s orders. Next, contact an attorney who specializes in personal injury and product liability law to understand your rights. Your attorney can advise you on the best course of action. When a company knowingly puts consumers at risk, those who are harmed have a right to legal recourse. That includes being compensated for their medical expenses, as well as any pain or suffering that is associated.
Contact an Experienced Roundup Injury Lawyer
My name is Brian Ricci a North Carolina product liability lawyer. Anyone who has been injured by Roundup should contact me at (252) 777-2222 for free, friendly advice. I have a toll-free number at (800) 387-6406.
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