Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and Los Angeles Roundup Lawsuits

For years, Roundup was the most trusted name in weed control, found in garden sheds and on farms across the nation. Its manufacturer, Monsanto, assured the public of its safety. However, a growing body of evidence has now revealed a dark side to this popular herbicide, linking its primary ingredient, glyphosate, to a devastating cancer diagnosis: non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

This connection has become the foundation for thousands of lawsuits filed by individuals who believe their cancer was caused by prolonged exposure to Roundup. These legal battles have exposed allegations of corporate misconduct and brought the stories of victims to the forefront. If you or a loved one used Roundup and later developed NHL, get in touch with an experienced Roundup lawsuit lawyer immediately. Like any personal injury lawsuit in California, these cases have strict time limits. One call to Walch Law is all it takes. 

The Link Between Glyphosate and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

The core of the Roundup litigation centers on its active ingredient, glyphosate. Introduced by Monsanto in the 1970s, glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide, meaning it kills most plants it contacts. Its effectiveness made it a global bestseller. However, as its use soared, so did concerns about its long-term health effects.

What is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the body’s immune network. It begins when white blood cells called lymphocytes grow abnormally and form tumors. NHL is not a single disease but a group of blood cancers, including subtypes like Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) and Follicular Lymphoma.

Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. Treatment is often grueling, involving chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy, and can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life.

The Scientific Evidence

The first major international alarm was sounded in 2015 when the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans.” The IARC panel reviewed numerous independent, peer-reviewed studies and found a particular association between glyphosate exposure and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Since then, more research has supported this conclusion. A 2019 meta-analysis from the University of Washington found that heavy exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides could increase the risk of developing NHL by as much as 41%. These studies suggest that glyphosate can cause DNA and chromosomal damage in human cells, leading to the kind of cellular mutations that trigger cancer.

Despite this, Bayer (which acquired Monsanto in 2018) continues to maintain that Roundup is safe when used as directed, citing studies and regulatory approvals from agencies like the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, lawsuits allege that Monsanto has a long history of influencing scientific research and regulatory bodies to protect its profits.

The Allegations at the Heart of California Roundup Lawsuits

The legal claims against Monsanto/Bayer are not just about a defective product; they are about an alleged corporate cover-up. Plaintiffs argue that Monsanto knew about the cancer risks associated with glyphosate for decades and intentionally misled the public and regulators.

Internal company documents, unsealed during litigation and known as the “Monsanto Papers,” have provided powerful evidence for these claims. These documents appear to show that the company:

• Ghostwrote scientific articles and paid outside academics to put their names on them to create the impression of independent support for Roundup’s safety.
• Ignored the findings of its own scientists who raised concerns about glyphosate’s potential to cause genetic damage.
• Attempted to discredit the IARC report and harass the scientists involved.
• Maintained a close, and allegedly improper, relationship with certain EPA officials to ensure favorable regulatory decisions.

These allegations of misconduct have been a key factor in several massive jury verdicts, where juries awarded not only compensatory damages but also substantial punitive damages to punish the company for its behavior.

Who Qualifies to File a Los Angeles Roundup Lawsuit?

While every case is unique, there are general criteria that must be met to qualify for a Roundup lawsuit. A strong claim typically requires demonstrating a clear link between your exposure to the product and your NHL diagnosis.

1. Proof of Significant Roundup Exposure

You must establish a history of substantial and prolonged exposure to Roundup. This is most common for individuals who used the herbicide as part of their job, including:

• Farmers and agricultural workers
• Professional landscapers and gardeners
• Groundskeepers for schools, parks, or golf courses
• Nursery employees

Home gardeners who used Roundup frequently and consistently over many years may also qualify. The key is establishing a pattern of regular use, not just a few isolated applications.

2. A Diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

A formal diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma or one of its subtypes is essential. Your medical records, including pathology reports confirming the diagnosis, will serve as the primary evidence of your illness.

Compensation Available in a Roundup Lawsuit

A successful lawsuit can provide compensation for the full range of losses you have suffered due to your cancer diagnosis. This compensation, or “damages,” is divided into three main categories.

Economic Damages

These are the tangible financial costs associated with your illness. They include:

• Past and Future Medical Bills: Covering everything from hospital stays and chemotherapy to prescription drugs and home care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you lost while unable to work.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: If your illness prevents you from returning to your job or working at the same level, you can claim damages for the future income you will lose.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages compensate for the profound, intangible suffering your illness has caused. This includes:

• Pain and Suffering: For the physical pain and emotional distress of living with cancer.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: For the loss of ability to participate in hobbies and activities you once loved.
• Loss of Consortium: A claim made by a spouse for the loss of companionship and intimacy.

Punitive Damages

Awarded in cases of extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. Juries in several Roundup trials have awarded billions in punitive damages (though these amounts were later reduced by judges) to send a message to Bayer that concealing health risks is unacceptable.

Why You Need the Best Roundup Attorney

Taking on a multi-billion-dollar corporation like Bayer is an impossible task to undertake alone. Their legal teams are dedicated to challenging every claim and minimizing payouts. An experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in mass tort cases like the Roundup litigation can level the playing field.

A skilled attorney will:

• Investigate Your Case: Gather all the necessary evidence, including your work history, medical records, and proof of Roundup use.
• Hire Top Experts: Work with leading medical and scientific experts to build a powerful case linking your NHL to glyphosate exposure.
• Navigate the Legal System: Handle all complex legal filings, negotiate with Bayer’s lawyers, and ensure you meet critical deadlines like the statute of limitations.
• Fight for Maximum Compensation: Advocate fiercely on your behalf, whether at the negotiating table or in front of a jury, to ensure you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve.

Your focus should be on your health and your family. If you believe your non-Hodgkin lymphoma was caused by Roundup, let the dedicated legal team at Walch Law handle the fight for justice. We take all our Roundup cases on a contingency fee basis so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain from setting up your obligation-free consultation with Robert and Gary Walch.