Pesticide Exposure Linked to Increased Rates of Late-Stage Cancer

A new data analysis from Food & Water Watch reveals a concerning correlation between glyphosate exposure and late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma, adding to a growing body of evidence linking pesticide use to cancer. The findings, released on March 20, 2026, indicate that 71% of counties with the highest glyphosate application rates have late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma incidence rates exceeding the national average.

Growing Evidence of a Connection

The Food & Water Watch analysis builds upon previous research conducted by Investigate Midwest, in partnership with the Pulitzer Center’s StoryReach U.S. Fellowship. Last month, their investigation found that 60% of the top 500 counties for overall pesticide use reported cancer rates above the national average. This latest data focuses specifically on glyphosate, a widely used herbicide and the active ingredient in Roundup.

Researchers examined the top 20% of counties for glyphosate use and discovered that the majority are located in the upper Midwest. Nearly three out of four of these counties exhibited late-stage cancer rates higher than the national average. Late-stage diagnoses are particularly relevant, as these cases often form the basis of lawsuits against agricultural companies.

Roundup Lawsuits and Ongoing Litigation

The findings come as nearly 100,000 lawsuits have been settled with pesticide manufacturers, most notably Bayer, the maker of Roundup. Amanda Starbuck, a researcher with Food & Water Watch, explained to Investigate Midwest, “A lot of the strongest cases that are able to make it into litigation are the more aggressive, late-stage (cases).”

Investigate Midwest’s Ongoing Reporting

Investigate Midwest has been actively reporting on the potential health impacts of pesticide use. Their February 2026 publications include:

• Investigate Midwest: Reporting on state oversight of farmworker housing.
• High Pesticide-Use Counties Often Have Higher-Than-Average Late-Stage Cancer Rates: The initial report on the correlation between pesticide use and cancer rates.
• Toxic Fields: An examination of pesticide use and cancer rates.

Further Research and Resources

Investigate Midwest is inviting individuals who believe their cancer diagnosis may be linked to widespread pesticide use to complete a brief form to contribute to their ongoing research.