Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is a cancer originating in the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the body's immune defenses. This complex disease affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, and can spread throughout the lymphatic system and beyond.
As cases of NHL continue to rise, researchers increasingly focus on potential environmental causes, including exposure to certain chemicals and contaminated water sources.
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What is Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma?
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a diverse group of blood cancers that develop from lymphocytes. Unlike Hodgkin's lymphoma, marked by Reed-Sternberg cells, NHL can arise from B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, or natural killer cells. This cancer can occur at any age but is more common in older adults and slightly more prevalent in men than women.
Symptoms of NHL may include:
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
- Persistent fatigue
- Fever and night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chest pain or breathing problems
- Abdominal pain or swelling
Potential Causes of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Several risk factors may contribute to NHL:
- Age: The risk increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in people over 60.
- Gender: Men have a slightly higher risk than women.
- Ethnicity: In the United States, white people are more likely to develop NHL than African Americans or Asian Americans.
- Immune system disorders: Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, increase the risk.
- Certain infections: Some viral and bacterial infections, like Epstein-Barr virus and Helicobacter pylori, may increase the risk.
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus may increase the likelihood of developing NHL.
However, growing evidence suggests that environmental factors, including exposure to certain chemicals and contaminated water, may play a significant role in causing NHL.
Three notable environmental links have emerged in recent years:
- Contaminated water at Camp Lejeune
- Exposure to the weedkiller Roundup and
- Contact with firefighting foam (AFFF)
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination and NHL
Researchers have linked contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, a U.S. Marine Corps base in North Carolina, to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
From the 1950s to the 1980s, residents, military personnel, and workers at Camp Lejeune were exposed to water contaminated with hazardous chemicals, including trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride. Prolonged exposure to these known carcinogens may cause several forms of cancer, including NHL.
Studies have shown that Camp Lejeune's water contamination significantly increased the risk of developing NHL among those exposed. Veterans, family members, and workers who lived or worked at the base during this period have reported higher instances of various health concerns and cancers, including non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, leading to numerous lawsuits and compensation claims.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes the connection between the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune and several health conditions, including NHL. This recognition has paved the way for veterans and their families to file claims for compensation for medical treatment and other damages resulting from their exposure.
Camp Lejeune lawsuits have focused on holding the government and responsible parties accountable for the negligence that led to the prolonged exposure of thousands of people to these dangerous chemicals.
Roundup Exposure and Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Another significant cause of NHL that has gained attention is exposure to Roundup, a popular weed killer manufactured by Monsanto (now owned by Bayer).
The active ingredient in Roundup, glyphosate, has been classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a World Health Organization (WHO) branch. Research has suggested that long-term exposure to glyphosate can increase the risk of NHL.
The link between Roundup and NHL has led to a surge of lawsuits filed by individuals who have been diagnosed with NHL after using the weedkiller.
These lawsuits argue that Monsanto knew or should have known about the cancer risks associated with glyphosate but failed to warn users adequately. As a result, many individuals have sought compensation for their medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages related to their diagnosis.
In several high-profile Roundup lawsuits, courts have awarded significant compensation to plaintiffs, reinforcing the connection between Roundup and NHL. These legal victories have encouraged more people to come forward, leading to an ongoing wave of litigation against Bayer.
The Roundup lawsuits highlight the potential dangers of widely used consumer products and the importance of holding corporations accountable for the safety of their products when used as directed.
AFFF (Firefighting Foam) Exposure and NHL
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is another substance linked to an increased risk of NHL. Firefighters and military personnel commonly use AFFF to extinguish flammable liquid fires.
The foam contains per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of man-made chemicals known for their persistence in the environment and the human body. These chemicals are called forever chemicals due to their resistance to breaking down over time.
Research has shown that prolonged exposure to PFAS can lead to various health issues, including an elevated risk of cancer. Studies have specifically linked AFFF exposure to an increased risk of developing lymphoma, particularly among firefighters and military personnel who have used the foam regularly over many years.
As awareness of the dangers associated with AFFF has grown, so has the number of AFFF lawsuits filed by individuals diagnosed with NHL. These lawsuits often target the manufacturers of AFFF, as well as the military and other organizations that have used the foam extensively.
Plaintiffs argue that they were not adequately warned about the risks of PFAS exposure, leading to preventable cases of cancer and other serious health conditions.
The legal landscape surrounding AFFF exposure involves individual and class-action lawsuits. As research into the health effects of PFAS continues, more individuals are coming forward to seek justice for their exposure to these dangerous chemicals.
Seeking Justice and Support
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and believe it may be linked to exposure to contaminated water, Roundup, AFFF, or other dangerous substances, you may have legal options. Filing a lawsuit can help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your diagnosis.
The experienced legal team at Lawsuit Legal News is dedicated to helping victims of toxic exposure fight for their rights. Our attorneys deeply understand mass tort cases and are committed to holding negligent companies and organizations accountable. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Don’t wait to take action. Contact Lawsuit Legal News today to learn more about how we can help you pursue justice and secure the compensation you deserve. Your health and your future are too important to leave to chance.
Call 866-535-9515 today or complete our simple online form for your free consultation.