Roundup Lawsuit: Cancer Claims, Status & Average Payout

In recent years, Roundup lawsuits have become one of the most closely watched legal battles in product liability history.

Individuals claim the weed killer, particularly its active ingredient glyphosate, caused cancer and other severe health issues, sparking a significant wave of litigation against Bayer, the company that owns Monsanto.

The controversy primarily revolves around non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), a cancer affecting the lymphatic system, though plaintiffs have also reported a range of other cancers linked to glyphosate exposure.

In this article, we’ll dive into every aspect of the Roundup lawsuit to help you understand what it entails, who qualifies, and how victims may seek justice and compensation.

Key facts about the roundup lawsuit:

• Health Risks: Claims often focus on non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but other cancers and health impacts are also cited.
• Primary Defendant: Monsanto, owned by Bayer, is the primary defendant facing lawsuits.
• Scientific Controversy: Although some studies link glyphosate to cancer, regulatory bodies are divided on its carcinogenicity.
• Legal Developments: Billions have been awarded in jury verdicts and settlements, though Bayer is actively appealing many cases.
• Current Litigation: Thousands of cases remain unresolved, with new plaintiffs joining ongoing multidistrict litigation (MDL) in California.

Roundup Lawsuit Updates

The journey of Roundup lawsuits spans multiple decades, with significant milestones reflecting evolving public awareness and scientific inquiry into glyphosate’s health impacts. Below are key dates that outline the trajectory of Roundup litigation:

1974:

Monsanto introduces Roundup to the market as a groundbreaking herbicide, containing glyphosate, aimed at transforming agricultural practices. For decades, it has become one of the most popular weedkillers in the world.

1996:

The first complaints against Roundup arise, mostly environmental, addressing ecological damage. At this point, there are minimal claims of cancer or personal injury related to Roundup use, as evidence is not yet widely documented.

2015:

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an arm of the World Health Organization, classifies glyphosate as a “probable human carcinogen” (Group 2A) based on animal and limited human studies.

This IARC ruling brings global attention to glyphosate’s potential link to cancer, specifically non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Following this, lawsuits against Monsanto start increasing as individuals become aware of the potential health risks associated with Roundup.

2018:

A historic moment in Roundup litigation, a California jury awarded $289 million to Dewayne “Lee” Johnson, a former groundskeeper diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma after prolonged Roundup use.

Johnson’s trial is significant because internal Monsanto documents, known as the “Monsanto Papers,” are disclosed, suggesting that the company may have downplayed the risks of glyphosate exposure. Johnson’s verdict is later reduced to $78 million, but this case becomes a catalyst, sparking thousands of lawsuits nationwide.

2019:

The number of lawsuits against Monsanto continues to surge. In March 2019, another California jury awarded $80 million to Edwin Hardeman, who claims Roundup use led to his cancer diagnosis.

In May, a California jury awarded $2 billion in punitive damages to a couple, Alva and Alberta Pilliod, who both developed non-Hodgkin lymphoma after prolonged Roundup exposure.

This $2 billion award is later reduced to $86.7 million but marks one of the highest punitive damage amounts in Roundup litigation history.

2020:

Bayer, facing overwhelming litigation pressure, agrees to a $10.9 billion settlement to resolve around 100,000 claims related to Roundup cancer lawsuits. However, the settlement does not include all outstanding claims, and Bayer reserves $1.25 billion to address future claims.

Bayer attempts to establish a $2 billion fund for future claims, but the proposal is rejected by U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria, who oversees the multidistrict litigation (MDL) in California, as he deems the offer insufficient for future victims.

2021-2023:

Bayer seeks to mitigate liability by appealing several verdicts and attempting to secure legal protections. Despite several favorable rulings, including wins in Missouri and Pennsylvania, Bayer remains entangled in thousands of lawsuits. Some cases continue to yield substantial verdicts for plaintiffs, with awards sometimes reaching hundreds of millions.

2024:

By January 2024, a Philadelphia court awarded $2.25 billion to a Pennsylvania man diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma after regular Roundup use. This marks one of the largest verdicts to date in Roundup litigation.

Meanwhile, Bayer faces setbacks in the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia, where the court rules that certain state claims preempt federal labeling laws. This ruling opens a potential path for plaintiffs to claim Monsanto did not provide sufficient warnings about glyphosate risks on product labels.

This timeline reveals the evolving landscape of Roundup lawsuits, highlighting both Bayer’s legal challenges and plaintiffs’ significant victories. These cases remain active in multiple U.S. circuit courts, with further appeals expected as Bayer seeks to reduce liability.

Roundup Lawsuit Overview

The Roundup lawsuit has raised complex questions about product safety, corporate responsibility, and consumer health. Let’s go deeper into what this legal battle entails and why so many are involved.

What is the Roundup Lawsuit?

The Roundup lawsuit is an ongoing legal battle involving thousands of plaintiffs who allege that Roundup weed killer, particularly its primary ingredient glyphosate, led to their cancer diagnosis or other serious health conditions. Bayer, which acquired Monsanto in 2018, inherited these lawsuits and has since been defending Roundup’s safety profile in court.

The lawsuit gained momentum after the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a division of the World Health Organization, classified glyphosate as a “probable human carcinogen” in 2015. Plaintiffs argue that Monsanto failed to warn consumers about Roundup’s risks, leading to widespread harm.

In response, Bayer and Monsanto have insisted that glyphosate-based products are safe when used as directed, citing regulatory approvals from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other agencies. However, plaintiffs and their lawyers argue that internal Monsanto documents suggest the company downplayed or hid risks ass

Background of Roundup and Glyphosate

Roundup, a widely used herbicide introduced by Monsanto in the 1970s, became a staple in agriculture and home gardening. Glyphosate, its active ingredient, targets and kills nearly all plants by inhibiting an enzyme essential for plant growth.

Monsanto’s introduction of genetically modified, glyphosate-resistant crops allowed farmers to use Roundup without harming their plants, boosting its popularity. Over time, Roundup use became nearly ubiquitous in conventional farming practices.

Despite its widespread use, glyphosate’s safety has been questioned for decades. Research suggests that long-term exposure to glyphosate may lead to health issues in humans and ecological harm. Monsanto has consistently maintained that glyphosate is safe, supported by certain regulatory bodies like the EPA.

However, this position contrasts sharply with the IARC’s classification of glyphosate as potentially carcinogenic, which has fueled ongoing lawsuits and raised public concern about the safety of products containing glyphosate.

Key Health Concerns Linked to Roundup

Roundup, known for its active ingredient glyphosate, has raised significant health concerns over the years. Here are the major health issues associated with glyphosate, with a particular focus on cancer:

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

The most commonly cited cancer linked to glyphosate exposure, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), is a type of blood cancer affecting the lymphatic system. Numerous studies suggest that prolonged exposure to glyphosate increases the risk of developing NHL. This has become a central focus in Roundup cancer claims, where plaintiffs frequently cite NHL as the primary condition related to their exposure.

Leukemia

Research has pointed to a potential connection between glyphosate and leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. Individuals exposed to glyphosate in their homes or workplaces may face higher risks, though further studies are needed to fully understand this relationship.

Liver and Kidney Damage

Prolonged glyphosate exposure is linked to liver and kidney toxicity, which can manifest as organ damage over time. Though not directly linked to cancer, glyphosate’s impact on these organs can lead to serious chronic conditions and compromise overall health.

Respiratory Issues

Some studies indicate that frequent glyphosate exposure may cause respiratory issues, including asthma and other breathing difficulties. Individuals who use Roundup over an extended period, especially without protective equipment, may experience these symptoms.

Reproductive Health Concerns

Glyphosate exposure has also been associated with reproductive health problems. Studies have shown that exposure may lead to fertility issues, developmental delays, and other impacts on reproductive health, as observed in both animal and some human studies.

While scientific consensus is still evolving, these health concerns remain at the heart of the Roundup litigation cases. Many individuals affected by these issues have sought compensation, arguing that they were not adequately warned of these risks when using the product.

The Link Between Roundup and Cancer

The connection between Roundup and cancer has sparked major debate and scientific scrutiny over the years. Let’s take a closer look at what studies reveal and where the science stands on this complex issue.

Studies on Glyphosate and Cancer Risk

The link between glyphosate and cancer is one of the most debated topics in environmental health. The IARC’s classification of glyphosate as a probable carcinogen in 2015 brought widespread attention to the potential health risks of Roundup. Following this classification, multiple studies have attempted to confirm or refute glyphosate’s link to cancer.

One of the most cited studies is a meta-analysis published in 2019 in Mutation Research, which found that agricultural workers exposed to high levels of glyphosate had a 41% increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Other studies, however, have reached conflicting conclusions, with regulatory bodies like the EPA maintaining that glyphosate is unlikely to pose a cancer risk when used according to label instructions.

This discrepancy has led to ongoing debate among scientists and regulators. Some argue that glyphosate’s long-term health effects are underreported due to insufficient research on chronic exposure, while others claim that glyphosate is one of the safest herbicides available.

Types of Cancer Associated with Roundup Exposure

Although non-Hodgkin lymphoma is the primary cancer linked to glyphosate exposure, plaintiffs have reported other types of cancers in their lawsuits. These include:

Leukemia

Known as a blood cancer, leukemia affects the body’s white blood cells, which are crucial for immune function. Symptoms often include fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising. Chronic exposure to glyphosate has been speculated in some studies to elevate leukemia risks in certain populations, especially in agricultural settings.

Multiple Myeloma

This cancer affects plasma cells within the bone marrow, which play a role in the immune system. Multiple myeloma can cause bone pain, fractures, and anemia, leading to increased fatigue and susceptibility to infections. While not as common as NHL in these lawsuits, multiple myeloma has been reported by several plaintiffs.

B-cell and T-cell Lymphomas

These are subtypes of lymphoma, with B-cell lymphoma affecting B-lymphocytes and T-cell lymphoma impacting T-lymphocytes —both critical to immune defense. Studies have examined the connection between glyphosate exposure and these specific lymphomas, with some research suggesting a heightened risk among those with long-term exposure.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

For individuals exposed to Roundup, particularly over extended periods, symptoms can manifest that are often linked to cancers. Recognizing these symptoms early can make a difference in treatment outcomes, so it’s essential to know what to look for.

• Swollen Lymph Nodes: One of the earliest signs often noticed is swelling of the lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpits, or groin. Swollen lymph nodes can be painless or tender and may persist or grow over time.
• Persistent Fatigue: Cancer-related fatigue feels different from typical tiredness. This type of exhaustion doesn’t improve with rest and can interfere with daily activities, leaving individuals feeling constantly drained.
• Night Sweats: Unexplained night sweats that drench clothing and bedding, even when the room isn’t hot, can be a sign of lymphoma or leukemia. These sweats often occur alongside fever and chills.
• Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss of 10% or more of body weight within six months can be a red flag. This isn’t typical weight loss from lifestyle changes but is often associated with underlying health conditions.
• Chest Pain or Coughing: Some types of lymphoma can affect the chest area, causing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or a persistent cough. These symptoms may worsen over time and should be evaluated if they persist.

Each symptom may vary based on the type of cancer and how long someone was exposed to glyphosate. If you’ve used Roundup extensively and notice these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider promptly.

Legal Claims Options

Roundup litigation comprises various types of lawsuits, with plaintiffs choosing claims that best align with their situations. Key legal claims include personal injury, wrongful death, and class action lawsuits. Each claim type has specific legal requirements and implications for plaintiffs:

Personal Injury Lawsuits

These claims are the most common in Roundup litigation, filed by individuals diagnosed with cancer after regular Roundup use. Plaintiffs seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. 

Given the extensive evidence presented in some personal injury cases, including internal Monsanto documents, these lawsuits have often yielded substantial verdicts and settlements.

Wrongful Death Claims

Filed by family members of individuals who passed away from cancer related to Roundup exposure, wrongful death claims focus on obtaining compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering.

These cases emphasize the impact of Roundup on families and the long-term consequences of glyphosate exposure. Wrongful death claims often rely on similar evidence as personal injury lawsuits, although they may include additional documentation about the deceased’s health history and Roundup usage.

Class Action Lawsuits

Separate from personal injury and wrongful death claims, class action lawsuits often address deceptive advertising and failure-to-warn claims rather than seeking compensation for cancer diagnoses.

Plaintiffs in class action suits typically argue that Monsanto misled consumers by advertising Roundup as safe and environmentally friendly without adequate cancer warnings. Class action cases may result in lower payouts per plaintiff but can lead to substantial punitive damages against Monsanto for corporate misconduct.

Each legal claim option offers distinct paths for those affected by Roundup, allowing individuals to seek compensation based on their unique circumstances. While class actions address broader issues of corporate responsibility, personal injury and wrongful death claims focus on individual health impacts.

Who Qualifies for Roundup Lawsuit?

If you’ve been exposed to Roundup and experienced health issues, you may wonder if you’re eligible to file a Roundup cancer lawsuit. Let’s break down who qualifies and what makes a strong case, including the criteria for those most likely to succeed in filing a claim.

Eligibility Criteria for Filing a Claim

To qualify for a Roundup lawsuit, specific exposure and health criteria must be met. Here’s a closer look at what qualifies someone to take legal action:

Prolonged Exposure

Individuals who used Roundup weedkiller over a significant period, often for several years, are more likely to meet eligibility requirements. This extended exposure, particularly for individuals in farming, gardening, or grounds keeping, tends to increase health risks associated with the product.

Diagnosis with a Related Illness

Individuals diagnosed with specific cancers, such as leukemia or B-cell lymphomas, after prolonged Roundup exposure may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Studies have suggested a connection between these types of cancer and glyphosate exposure, particularly when high exposure levels are involved.

Timing of Diagnosis

The timing of the diagnosis also plays a role. Most lawsuits involve claimants diagnosed after extended Roundup use, usually within a few years of the exposure period. Courts may consider whether the cancer diagnosis occurred after sustained use of Roundup and whether glyphosate exposure could plausibly be linked to the illness.

Age During Exposure

Many lawsuits focus on individuals exposed to Roundup as adults or for work purposes, as repeated exposure in these settings appears to carry higher risk. However, younger individuals with extensive exposure may also qualify, especially if they developed health issues within a reasonable period following exposure.

These criteria serve as a general guideline, but each case is unique. Speaking with Roundup lawyers can help clarify your eligibility and provide a professional assessment of your case.

Factors That Can Strengthen Your Case

Once eligibility is established, certain elements can help strengthen a Roundup cancer claim. These include:

Medical Records

Comprehensive medical documentation, particularly records showing a cancer diagnosis, is essential. This paperwork will demonstrate the connection between the illness and the exposure period, helping to build the case that Roundup may have contributed to the health issues.

Proof of Roundup Use

Evidence of Roundup use is a key factor. This might include purchase receipts, product packaging, or even employer records showing regular use of Roundup in a professional setting. For farmers, landscapers, and groundskeepers, employer documentation can serve as valuable proof.

Expert Testimony

Many cases benefit from medical or scientific expert testimony, linking glyphosate exposure to cancer. Expert witnesses, often physicians or toxicologists, can provide an objective perspective on how glyphosate might have impacted your health.

Documentation of Exposure Levels

High exposure levels or consistent contact with Roundup can strengthen your case. Documenting usage patterns, such as how often and for how long you used the product, helps provide context and scale for the exposure, adding credibility to the lawsuit.

Building a case involves gathering substantial evidence and working closely with legal experts. Each piece of evidence strengthens the claim, bringing it closer to the possibility of a successful Roundup trial.

How to File a Roundup Lawsuit

If you’ve been exposed to Roundup and have health issues you believe are connected, taking the right steps is crucial for a solid case. From finding a qualified Roundup lawyer to gathering key documents, here’s a guide to the steps involved in filing a Roundup lawsuit and what to expect along the way.

1. Consult a Roundup Lawyer

The first step is to consult with an experienced Roundup lawyer who specializes in environmental or personal injury cases. An attorney familiar with Roundup litigation can guide you on your eligibility, the strength of your case, and the process from start to finish.

Look for lawyers who have handled Roundup cancer claims before. An initial consultation will usually involve reviewing your exposure history, medical records, and the potential for a successful lawsuit.

2. Gather Medical Records and Diagnosis Documents

Your medical history is essential to proving your case, especially if you’re pursuing compensation for cancer treatments or related illnesses.

Start by gathering records from all medical providers who treated you for your illness. Medical documentation, including details about your diagnosis and treatment, will help show the extent of your suffering and may be key to the compensation you’re eligible to receive.

3. Compile Evidence of Roundup Use

It’s essential to show that you’ve had prolonged exposure to Roundup. Evidence like purchase receipts, product labels, or work records showing regular exposure to Roundup is vital for your claim.

If you used Roundup professionally, such as in farming or landscaping, consider asking for documentation from your employer that verifies your use. Photos of you using the product, witness statements, or even invoices can also help substantiate your claim.

How Long Does the Legal Process Take?

The timeline for Roundup lawsuits can vary significantly, and it’s often a lengthy process. Successful plaintiffs may have to wait 2 to 3 years to receive a Roundup settlement, depending on several factors. The strength of your evidence, Bayer’s willingness to settle, and the complexity of your case can all affect how long it will take.

Compensation and Settlements

Compensation in Roundup lawsuits can vary widely depending on factors like medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and the severity of the illness. While the average settlement amount for Roundup cases is around $160,000, actual payouts can differ significantly based on each case’s specific details.

Medical Expenses

Compensation typically covers both current and future medical costs related to your illness. This includes hospital stays, cancer treatments, prescriptions, and any follow-up care required. For individuals undergoing costly cancer treatments, medical expenses form a significant portion of the compensation sought.

Lost Wages and Loss of Income

Cancer and other serious illnesses can prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently. Compensation for lost wages helps cover the income lost while you were unable to work, and in severe cases, damages may cover future lost income if your condition prevents you from returning to your previous job.

Pain and Suffering

Beyond medical costs and lost income, pain and suffering damages address the physical and emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis. This is an area where settlements can vary greatly, as they take into account the subjective impact on your quality of life. Physical pain, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life are all considered.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, courts award punitive damages to penalize the defendant and deter future negligence. If a court finds that Bayer acted with gross negligence or intentionally concealed Roundup’s risks, punitive damages may be added to the compensation. This type of award is often larger and designed to send a strong message to the defendant.

Factors Influencing Settlement Amounts:

Settlement amounts in Roundup lawsuits depend on multiple factors, including:

• Severity of Illness: Individuals with advanced cancers or life-threatening conditions may be eligible for higher compensation.
• Extent of Roundup Exposure: Plaintiffs with high levels of prolonged Roundup exposure often receive larger settlements, as higher exposure is linked to increased cancer risk.
• Strength of Evidence: Solid evidence, such as medical records, proof of Roundup use, and expert testimony, can impact the size of a settlement.

For example, in 2020, Bayer settled over 100,000 Roundup claims for $10.9 billion, showing that large payouts are possible for strong cases.

Some individual verdicts, like the $289 million awarded to Dewayne Johnson in 2018 (later reduced to $78 million), highlight the potential for significant damages when evidence and jury findings align in the plaintiff’s favor.

Common Challenges in Roundup Lawsuits

Filing a lawsuit against a major corporation can be complex, and Roundup lawsuits are no exception. Here are some challenges that claimants commonly face:

Proving Causation

One of the biggest hurdles is proving that Roundup exposure directly caused your cancer. This challenge arises from differing scientific views, as some studies indicate a cancer link while others don’t. Plaintiffs must often rely on expert testimony to show causation, making strong medical records and evidence crucial.

Statute of Limitations

The time limit for filing a claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. Missing this deadline could prevent you from taking legal action, even if you have a strong case. Each state has its rules, so consulting a lawyer promptly is essential to ensure you meet this deadline.

Corporate Defense Strategies

Bayer has robust legal resources and often appeals unfavorable rulings, which can delay the outcome. Bayer’s legal strategy frequently involves challenging evidence or using appeals to reduce award amounts, creating a lengthy process for claimants.

Complex Legal Proceedings

Roundup lawsuits often proceed as multidistrict litigation (MDL), which can involve many plaintiffs and multiple court hearings. MDL cases are more complex than individual lawsuits, and plaintiffs may find it challenging to navigate without legal guidance.

Despite these challenges, experienced Roundup lawyers are well-equipped to help plaintiffs navigate these issues, and a strong case can still achieve a favorable outcome, especially with expert representation.

Roundup Lawsuit FAQs

Do I Need to Have Cancer to File a Claim?

Yes, most Roundup lawsuits involve individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer, particularly non-Hodgkin lymphoma. To pursue a lawsuit, a cancer diagnosis linked to the Roundup weed killer is typically required.

Is There Still Time to File a Roundup Lawsuit?

Depending on the statute of limitations in your state, there may still be time to file. Most states have a two-to-four-year window, so it’s important to act quickly. Consulting with a lawyer is the best way to determine your eligibility within the timeline.

Can I Join a Class Action Lawsuit?

While there is no official Roundup class action lawsuit for individuals, many plaintiffs are grouped in multidistrict litigation (MDL), which consolidates cases for streamlined court proceedings. Discuss with a lawyer whether joining a Roundup MDL might be right for you.

Conclusion

Understanding the Roundup cancer lawsuit process can feel overwhelming, especially when managing the health impacts that may be linked to Roundup contaminants.

With eligibility requirements, evidence gathering, and the legal process to consider, it’s clear that every step counts. Whether you’re pursuing medical expenses, compensation for pain and suffering, or simply seeking to hold a company accountable, each action can bring you closer to justice and relief.

If you believe the Roundup weed killer has affected your health, taking action isn’t only about compensation—it’s about making a stand for yourself and others facing similar challenges. Taking that first step could be the start of a meaningful change.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers should consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance regarding their specific situation. The content is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.