MONSANTO’S ROUNDUP LAWSUIT CANADA| NON-HODGKIN’S LYMPHOMA
SIDHU LAWYERS, EDMONTON PERSONAL INJURY
PROVIDING SUPPORT, WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST
Our Canadian law firm, Sidhu Lawyers, now accepts new cases for class action lawsuits against Monsanto. These cases pertain to individuals who had exposure to RoundUp products and have been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
Significant exposure to RoundUp products may increase your chances of being diagnosed with cancer. Contact our experienced Sidhu Law Office team immediately to discuss your options. Canada has not yet banned it, but many countries worldwide have prohibited using this herbicide.
Our staff at Sidhu Lawyers can accept Roundup Class Action Canada and advocate for the compensation you deserve. There will be zero risk for you, as you will not be liable for any payments unless we are successful.
Brief History of Weed Killer
Glyphosate functions by inhibiting the 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) enzyme in the shikimate pathway for plant growth. It is an herbicide produced by Monsanto in the 1970s. It is often used in commercial settings and homes all over Canada, and it is regularly used in the forestry and agricultural sectors.
It was used privately in lawns, gardens, and aquatic environments. In 2015, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) International Agency for Research deemed herbicides “carcinogenic.”
Monsanto approved and advocated its use in both commercial and private sectors by advertising the herbicide as “safe.” As a result of this widely used product, this corporation acquired billions of dollars in profits.
Why is Monsanto Facing Legal Action in Canada?
A class-action lawsuit against Monsanto Canada and Bayer was initiated in April 2019. This class action was started on behalf of every resident in the country (except Quebec) who was associated with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after being exposed to weed killer from 1976 onwards.
Class action lawsuits in the United States often conclude faster than in Canada. In Canada, a class action Monsanto lawsuit can take years to process. Do not worry; our experienced team has handled numerous long-lasting pharmaceutical class actions.
On behalf of Quebec citizens who have developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma after using the chemical, authorization is being sought to initiate a similar class-action lawsuit in Quebec.
Now is the time to join in on this class action Monsanto lawsuit. Recently, there was a verdict in California against Bayer and Monsanto to pay over $2 billion to a couple who alleged that weed killer had resulted in their cancer diagnosis.
While it is unlikely that this couple will see this amount (as the company applied), this incident has set a tone for future cases.
Brief History
Monsanto Roundup, a widely used herbicide from the Monsanto Company, has a controversial history marked by legal battles and health concerns. Introduced in the 1970s, it quickly gained popularity due to its effectiveness in killing weeds.
The active ingredient, was believed to be safe and environmentally friendly. However, concerns regarding its safety have emerged over the years.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a division of the World Health Organization (WHO), classified it as a “probable human carcinogen.” This classification sparked a wave of lawsuits against Monsanto, the manufacturer, alleging that significant exposure to the herbicide caused non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers.
Numerous studies have investigated the potential link between the herbicide and cancer. While some studies have found no significant association, others have suggested a possible correlation between exposure and cancer risk, particularly non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
A landmark lawsuit in California resulted in a jury awarding a substantial amount of damages to a groundskeeper who declared that his cancer was caused by significant exposure to the chemical. This verdict attracted widespread attention and triggered thousands of additional lawsuits against Monsanto.
After Bayer AG acquired Monsanto, it inherited its legal pesticide-related liabilities. Despite Bayer’s efforts to defend its safety, the litigation continued, with numerous verdicts for and against the plaintiffs.
The controversy highlights the complex relationship between agricultural practices, public health, and environmental sustainability. As the legal and scientific debates persist, its future remains uncertain.
Recent Lawsuits Development
Here are the latest developments concerning Class Action cases:
Large Verdicts for Plaintiffs | Focus on the Dependant Failed to Warn |
In recent lawsuits, juries have awarded significant damages to plaintiffs whose claim alleges that using defoliants caused them to develop non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The largest verdict so far was awarded on January 26, 2024, to a Pennsylvania man, John McKivison, for $2.25 billion. | While juries have found that Bayer, the manufacturer, and the defendants failed to warn about the herbicide’s potential risks adequately, they haven’t necessarily found the product to be defective. This means the focus has been on Bayer’s communication of the risks rather than safety. |
Linked Health Impacts
Genotoxicity and Oxidative Stress
Genotoxicity refers to a substance’s ability to damage the genetic material within cells, leading to mutations and cancer. Studies have shown that crop control products can induce oxidative stress, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, and cellular dysfunction.
- A study by Kwiatkowska et al. (2017) demonstrated that exposure in human erythrocytes led to increased oxidative damage and impaired antioxidant defence mechanisms.
- While the chemical alone is genotoxic at higher concentrations, its formulation in commercial herbicides—combined with surfactants—may increase its toxicity.
- Polyethoxylated tallow amine (POEA) surfactants enhance the penetration of chemicals into plant and animal cells, exacerbating their genotoxic and toxic effects in humans.
Endocrine Disruption
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) interfere with the normal functioning of hormonal systems, which can lead to reproductive, developmental, and metabolic disorders. Studies have indicated that it can mimic or interfere with estrogen signalling.
Research by Thongprakaisang et al. (2013) found that it could promote the proliferation of hormone-dependent breast cancer cells by activating estrogen receptors.
- This suggests it may act as an endocrine disruptor even at low, environmentally relevant concentrations, particularly in estrogen-sensitive tissues.
- It raised concerns about its potential to affect hormone-regulated processes, including fertility, development, and cancer risk.
Impact on the Human Microbiome
A study by Mesnage et al. (2021) indicated that exposure could reduce the diversity of gut bacteria, like Lactobacillus, which are important for maintaining gut health and immune function. Disruption of the gut microbiome is associated with inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic disorders, and even mental health conditions.
Reproductive and Developmental Effects
Animal studies have demonstrated that it can cross the placental barrier, leading to developmental toxicity in fetuses.
- Research by Paganelli et al. (2010) showed that exposure to herbicides in amphibian and chicken embryos led to developmental abnormalities, suggesting teratogenic effects.
- A human study by Parvez et al. (2018) found that residues were detected in the urine of pregnant women, raising questions about fetal exposure.
Neurological Effects
A study by Cattani et al. (2017) found that glyphosate exposure in rats led to oxidative damage in the brain and impaired cognition and behavioural changes. These findings are consistent with a broader understanding of how oxidative stress can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
- Furthermore, glyphosate has been shown to interact with NMDA receptors in the brain, which are connected in synaptic plasticity and memory formation.
- Disruption of NMDA receptor function has been linked to neurological disorders, including schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders.
Settlements And Payouts
Most class action cases will eventually be settled and approved by the court. At this time, individual class members may be allowed to provide the court with their input.
During this time, individuals can voice their opposition against the settlements, especially if they believe they would not benefit from them or that they are insufficient. Our clients’ interests are our priority. Rest easy knowing that we will always strive to do our best when addressing the courts on our client’s behalf.
Once a settlement amount has been confirmed, the courts, like the Ontario Superior Court, will determine which members of the lawsuit are eligible to share in a part of the settlement. After all eligible individuals are accounted for, the courts can determine how much each person will receive. Keep in mind that this process can take years. This being said, our team will support you every step of the way.
How Sidhu Lawyers Can Help
Sidhu Lawyers, your personal injury lawyers Edmonton, can help ensure that you get the compensation that you deserve. Our Canadian law firm comprises class-action lawyers with extensive experience with class-action lawsuits, especially those about ailments caused by prescription medications and other substances.
As a general policy, our personal injury firm will represent individuals independently when this is the best route toward maximizing the settlement amount. We will explain all your options, answer any of your questions, and advise you on whether a class action case or independent lawsuit would yield the best outcome.
For a free consultation and to see where you or a loved one stands about collecting monetary relief, contact Sidhu Law today. Reach out to us through our email: Info@ngsidhu.com.
Canadian Class Action Update – January 2021
A certification trial is set for September 20, 2021. This hearing will determine whether the case should proceed as a class proceeding.
This particular case is still in its early stages. Currently, non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma is the main focus of the class action litigation. However, depending on the findings of upcoming scientific studies, other types of cancer may be added to the class-action lawsuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the latest regulations on pesticide usage?
At present, neither the Environmental Protection Agency nor the European Food Safety Agency associates glyphosate with cancer in humans. In contrast, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a division of the World Health Organization (WHO), asserts that glyphosate-based herbicides are “probably” human carcinogen.
Certain countries and regions within the United States, such as California, have regulations regarding the use of glyphosate or the permissible amount of glyphosate in products.
What are the common symptoms after being exposed to Roundup?
If exposed to weed killers, consult a doctor if experiencing symptoms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) such as:
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
- Unintentional weight loss
- Headache and confusion
- Shortness of breath
- Bone pain
- Swollen lymph nodes in areas like armpit and groin (especially if painless)
- Drenching night sweats
- Unexplained lumps or bumps all over the body.
How does lawyers’ contingency fee basis work?
These fees are payments made to a lawyer advocating for a client in a legal matter, particularly in cases seeking damages. The lawyer’s compensation is contingent upon the case’s success, meaning they only receive a payment if the case yields a favourable outcome.
They are calculated as a percentage of the damages awarded. Contingency fee agreements need to be documented in writing.