
There is evidence to suggest the product Roundup causes non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, but some debate remains among the medical community regarding the exact carcinogenic effects of Roundup. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an ingredient in Roundup, glyphosate, is a probable carcinogen in humans.
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) is a cancer that affects the lymphatic system, an intricate part of your immune system. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), NHL accounts for approximately 4 percent of all cancers with over 70,000 new cases reported annually in the United States alone.
Some of the symptoms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma include:
- Swollen or painful lymph nodes
- Pain in the abdominal region
- Sudden weight loss
- Fatigue
- Chest pain and difficulty breathing
If you are exhibiting any of these symptoms it is important to seek medical attention. Only a professional will be able to accurately assess and diagnose possible cases of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and develop a treatment plan accordingly.
There is some evidence that suggests exposure to the chemical glyphosate could increase the likelihood of developing this form of cancer. Glyphosate, found in the weed-killer Roundup, could be harmful depending on the duration and intensity of exposure. There is conflicting evidence of the dangers of Roundup, but it is still important to monitor your health if you have used or have been exposed to this product.
Exposure to Roundup
Whether you are a farmer or recreational gardener, work in a commercial setting or garden as a hobby, you may have used Roundup in the past. Roundup is very popular due to its effectiveness in killing unwanted weeds while preserving crops. This product, manufactured by the company Monsanto, is used over 100 times more than it was in 1974, according to a study published by the National Institutes of Health. Roundup has been used for over 40 years around the world and the potentially harmful chemical, glyphosate, is still being used to date.
Even if you do not regularly work with Roundup, you could still be exposed. Those who are part of the supply chain in the production or application of Roundup are in danger of ingesting this product. If you live near a farm or growing facility, it is possible you could also be exposed. Even if you are a consumer who ingests a food product that had been treated with Roundup, exposure can occur.
Glyphosate
Glyphosate is synthesized by combining iminodiacetic acid, phosphorous acid, and hydrochloric acid. While the first synthesis of this chemical is credited to a Swiss chemist named Henry Martin in the 1950’s, the American chemist John Franz independently discovered glyphosate in the 1970’s. Franz was working for Monsanto when he discovered glyphosate, and quickly realized its potential as an effective herbicide.
Glyphosate works as a weed killer by inhibiting an enzyme associated with plant growth. By being absorbed into growing weeds and inhibiting further growth, it is effective in killing off unwanted vegetation.
While there is no debate about whether or not Roundup is effective as a weed killer, there is some concern regarding the safety of Roundup and glyphosate in general.
Potential Risk
While there are some studies and reports, such as the 2015 release from the World Health Organization listing Roundup as a “probable” carcinogen, not all information from other agencies supports this claim. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stated as recently as 2020 that glyphosate poses “no risk of concern to human health.” For such an abundantly used product, there are relatively minimal studies conducted with any conclusiveness, but it is still possible that Roundup causes non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. If you are exhibiting any signs of disease and have been exposed to Roundup, you should seek medical guidance from a professional. It could also be beneficial to learn more about your legal options in case you were endangered by another party.
Does Roundup Cause Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma? Understanding Your Legal Options
If you were exposed to glyphosate, through your work, unknowingly as a consumer, or through any other measure, your health could be at risk. While there are still more pending studies and ongoing debate regarding whether or not Roundup causes non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, some studies suggest there is a link. The duration and intensity of exposure to Roundup could also be a contributing factor in the likelihood of developing cancer.
Your exposure could also be due to the negligence of a third party to keep you informed of dangerous effects and away from harmful substances. In some cases, those exposed to glyphosate could have a legal case against responsible parties. If you are interested in learning more about your legal options, call (800) 794-0444 today. A team member at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is available to discuss your case in detail and help you determine if you may be eligible for financial compensation.