Spring has sprung and with it the beginning of the lawn and garden season. In New Mexico, as elsewhere around the country, people strive for weed-free landscapes. One tool used to achieve that goal is the weed-killing product Roundup that was developed by Monsanto, which is now owned by Bayer. Roundup has been the subject of multiple product liability claims related to cancer.
The active ingredient in Roundup is glyphosate, which the Environmental Protection Agency has stated is probably not carcinogenic. That assertion has been challenged by the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer. They classify glyphosate as probably being a cancer-causing substance to humans. This is supported by other recent scientific studies showing a connection between glyphosate and cancer in humans.
Based on the results of these scientific studies, there have been many lawsuits brought against the makers of Roundup. Two such lawsuits were recently settled in favor of the plaintiffs. One of the cases resulted in a $78 million judgment against Bayer based on evidence that showed the plaintiff’s cancer was probably caused, in a large part, by Roundup. In addition, some stores around the country have stopped carrying the product in light of the possible dangers.
Many more lawsuits concerning Roundup and cancer are pending around the country. Anyone in New Mexico who is concerned that Roundup may have contributed to a cancer diagnosis should consult with a personal injury attorney regarding potential product liability. An experienced lawyer can review the details of one’s particular situation and help to determine whether a civil lawsuit is a viable option.