Carbaryl Cancer Investigation
Monday, July 28th, 2025 at 4:30 pm
Investigating Carbaryl and Cancer Risk
Paul LLP Trial Attorneys is investigating the growing evidence that exposure to the pesticide carbaryl—commonly sold under the brand name Sevin—may increase the risk of cancer. Widely used on crops, lawns, gardens, and even pet collars, carbaryl remains permitted in the United States despite mounting concerns about its safety.
What Recent Research Shows
A landmark study from the Agricultural Health Study (AHS), conducted by the National Cancer Institute, tracked more than 52,000 licensed pesticide applicators in Iowa and North Carolina who reported carbaryl use between 1993 and 2005. Through cancer registry data up to 2017, the study identified 8,713 cases of cancer and assessed associations with carbaryl exposure.
Key findings include:
- Applicators in the highest exposure group had nearly double the risk of stomach cancer.
- Elevated risks were observed for esophageal cancer and tongue cancer among users compared to non-users.
- A significant increase in aggressive prostate cancer was noted among those exposed 30 or more years before diagnosis.
Researchers described this as the largest and most comprehensive prospective evaluation of carbaryl and cancer risk to date.
Supporting Toxicology Evidence
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently classifies carbaryl as “likely to be carcinogenic to humans.”
Animal studies have shown:
- Increased rates of blood vessel tumors (hemangiosarcomas) in male mice.
- Higher incidences of bladder tumors in rats.
- Evidence that carbaryl can cause chromosomal damage and oxidative stress, both pathways associated with cancer development.
California has also listed carbaryl as a cancer-causing chemical under Proposition 65.
Who Faces the Greatest Risk?
- Agricultural workers and pesticide applicators with repeated or high-level exposure.
- Individuals in agricultural areas where carbaryl interacts with nitrates or nitrites, potentially creating more carcinogenic compounds.
- People exposed decades ago, since certain cancers such as prostate cancer may take years to develop.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
While carbaryl was banned in the European Union in 2007, it remains in use in the United States. More than 61 products containing carbaryl are still registered, with roughly 700,000 pounds applied annually to crops and 2 million pounds used on lawns, turf, and roadways.
Regulatory changes are expected soon, including new EPA labeling aimed at limiting environmental and health risks. These findings may also influence future litigation and settlement opportunities for those harmed by long-term exposure.
Why This Matters for Paul LLP
The growing body of evidence linking carbaryl to cancers such as stomach, esophageal, tongue, and prostate cancer presents significant legal implications. At Paul LLP, we focus on cases where groups of people have been harmed by the same dangerous product. With the support of this research, individuals exposed to carbaryl who later developed cancer may have valid legal claims.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know was exposed to carbaryl and later diagnosed with cancer, you may have legal options. Contact Paul LLP today to learn more about your rights and potential claims.
