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Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a cluster of blood cancers that begins in the white blood cells and affects the lymph system. The lymph system helps fight infection, disease, and allows fluids to move throughout the body.

NHL is most often diagnosed in older patients, but children can also develop NHL. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma typically originates wherever lymph tissue is found, including:

• Lymph nodes: Collections of lymphocytes and other immune system cells throughout the body, including inside the chest, abdomen, and pelvis.
• Bone marrow: A spongy tissue inside bones that creates new blood cells.
• Spleen: An organ that makes lymphocytes and other immune system cells, stores healthy blood cells, and filters out waste.
• Thymus: A small organ in front of the heart that is important in the development of T lymphocytes.
• Digestive tract: The stomach, intestines and other organs.
• Tonsils and adenoids: Collections of lymph tissue in the back of the throat that fight ingested germs.
• What Causes Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?

What Causes Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?

Certain DNA changes can cause normal lymphocytes to become lymphoma cells. These changes are usually acquired during life rather than inherited, and can result from exposure to radiation, infections, or cancer-causing chemicals. According to a 2019 study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington, glyphosate (the main ingredient in the herbicide Roundup)

What does NHL have to do with Round Up?

Using data related to patients with the highest exposure to glyphosate, researchers concluded that a “compelling link” exists between glyphosate exposure and the risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The 2019 study also mentions that researchers were “convinced” about the carcinogenic properties of the chemical. Bayer, parent company of Monsanto, and maker of Roundup, called the study a flawed “statistical manipulation” without incorporating no scientifically valid evidence.

People exposed to glyphosate beg to differ. More than 13,000 cancer patients and their families have filed lawsuits against Monsanto alleging that the company knew of the potential dangers associated with glyphosate exposure and failed to warn consumers. Three of the lawsuits have already resulted in large damage awards for injured plaintiffs.