The popular weed killer Roundup has been the subject of significant controversy due to potential health risks and ongoing legal battles. Despite this, it remains widely available. This blog will explore the reasons why Roundup is still being sold, the health risks of this popular weedkiller, and how Rueb Stoller Daniel can help victims seek justice in a Roundup lawsuit.
Is Roundup Safe?
Studies suggest glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, is likely to increase cancer risk in humans. For instance, research from the University of Washington indicates that prolonged exposure to glyphosate can increase the risk of developing non-Hodgkins lymphoma by 41%.
The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies glyphosate as probably carcinogenic based on studies related to herbicide exposure. Their research suggests that glyphosate might cause DNA and chromosomal damage in human cells.
Furthermore, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a part of WHO, has classified glyphosate as a probable human carcinogen. This classification indicates a potential risk to human health.
However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) holds a different view. The EPA maintains that glyphosate is safe when used as directed. The EPA’s position is a key factor in why Roundup is still being sold in the United States.
Why Is Roundup Still Being Sold?
Despite the controversies, Roundup continues to be available primarily because of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) classification. The EPA asserts that glyphosate, the main component in Roundup, is safe for use. This contradicts studies that link glyphosate to health risks and cancer.
The EPA’s stance significantly influences the continued sale of glyphosate-based products. As a result, the US has not implemented a ban on these products.
Continued demand is another factor. Roundup’s ability to control weeds has made it a staple in residential settings and agriculture. This effectiveness is a key reason for its sustained popularity.
Both public health advocates and environmental groups continue fighting to ban Roundup in the United States.
Coverup By Monsanto and Bayer
Monsanto began selling Round in 1974 and it quickly became the most widely used herbicide. Roundup is now owned by Bayer, which purchased Monsanto for $63 billion in July 2018.
It is alleged that Monsanto knew for more than 30 years that there was a link between Roundup use and cancer. However, it opted not to let the public know. Instead, the company said that with proper use, Roundup was non-toxic to both people and pets.
However, documents filed in court argue that Monsanto went to great lengths to keep the truth from the public. It continued to convince government agencies, farmers, and the public that its product was safe. The company attacked studies showing the dangers of Roundup. The documents also accuse Monsanto, which is now owned by Bayer, of conspiring with the EPA to hide the connection.
Bayer to Stop Selling Residential Roundup With Glyphosate
Bayer announced it would stop selling glyphosate-containing Roundup for residential use beginning in 2023. This decision does not apply to commercial use, where glyphosate-based herbicides remain available. The company has taken this step primarily to reduce litigation risk rather than fully acknowledging the potential health risks associated with glyphosate.
Despite these changes, Bayer continues to support the use of glyphosate in agricultural settings. The company’s stance is that glyphosate is essential for effective weed control in farming. Bayer maintains that the product is safe when used according to the current label instructions.
Bayer also introduced a five-point plan aimed at addressing concerns about glyphosate. This plan includes efforts to provide more information about glyphosate’s safety and to improve transparency. However, critics argue that these measures are insufficient and do not adequately address the health concerns raised by various studies and lawsuits.
Roundup Lawsuits
Over 125,000 lawsuits have been filed against Bayer-Monsanto, accusing the company of causing cancer through glyphosate exposure. Many of these cases involve non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a type of cancer linked to Roundup. The allegations claim that the company failed to warn users about the potential risks.
In 2018, a California jury awarded a school groundskeeper $289 million in damages, later reduced to $78 million on appeal. In 2019, an elderly couple who developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after using Roundup for more than thirty years were awarded $2.055 billion in damages.
Despite these legal battles, Roundup remains on store shelves. Financial settlements have been reached in many cases, with Bayer paying out billions to affected individuals. Yet, the company continues to face new lawsuits, indicating that the issue is far from resolved.
For those impacted by Roundup, understanding your legal options is crucial. Rueb Stoller Daniel can assist in navigating the complexities of filing a lawsuit against the makers of Roundup.
Who Qualifies for a Roundup Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one developed cancer after prolonged exposure to the weedkiller Roundup, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
You should reach out to an experienced attorney who specializes in Roundup lawsuits. Our team at Rueb Stoller Daniel can evaluate your case, help gather necessary evidence, and navigate the complexities of the legal process.
Compensation in a Roundup Lawsuit
Our mass tort attorneys at Rueb Stoller Daniel are dedicated to helping Roundup users with cancer get the justice they deserve. Depending on your specific circumstances, we may be able to seek compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses resulting from your cancer
- Past and future pain and suffering connected to your illness
- Lost salaries, wages, or commissions
- Other economic losses resulting from your illness and/or your treatment
- Punitive damages
Contact Rueb Stoller Daniel for a Free Consultation Today!
At Rueb Stoller Daniel, we specialize in representing victims of dangerous products like Roundup. If you or a loved one has developed health issues due to glyphosate exposure, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the legal process, from gathering evidence to filing a lawsuit.
Our team will work to secure a financial settlement that can help cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. We aim to hold Bayer-Monsanto accountable for the harm their product has caused. If you choose to hire us, you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.
If you’re considering legal action, don’t wait. The sooner you get in touch, the quicker we can start building your case. Rueb Stoller Daniel is committed to securing the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today for a free consultation by calling 1-866-CALL-RSD or using our contact form.
