Multiple myeloma is a rare but aggressive form of blood cancer that affects plasma cells in the bone marrow. In recent years, California courts have seen a rise in lawsuits linking multiple myeloma to toxic chemical exposure—particularly from products containing glyphosate (Roundup) and PFAS chemicals found in firefighting foam (AFFF). These cases often result in substantial settlements due to the severity of the disease, long latency periods, and corporate failure to warn consumers and workers of known risks.
Below are some of the top multiple myeloma lawsuit settlement amounts in California, along with case details and legal insights.
1. $3.2 Million – Roundup Exposure at Agricultural Facility (2023)
Case Summary: A 58-year-old farmworker in Central California developed multiple myeloma after decades of exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides. The plaintiff alleged that Monsanto failed to warn about the cancer risks associated with Roundup.
Settlement Details: The case settled for $3.2 million, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The plaintiff’s legal team presented internal Monsanto documents showing the company’s knowledge of potential carcinogenic effects.
2. $2.75 Million – Firefighting Foam Exposure at Military Base (2022)
Case Summary: A retired firefighter stationed at a California naval base was diagnosed with multiple myeloma after years of exposure to AFFF firefighting foam. The lawsuit targeted multiple manufacturers, including 3M and DuPont.
Settlement Details: The plaintiff received $2.75 million in a consolidated multidistrict litigation (MDL) settlement. The payout included compensation for medical treatment, disability, and emotional distress.
3. $2.4 Million – Occupational Exposure in Manufacturing Plant (2021)
Case Summary: A 62-year-old worker at a plastics manufacturing facility in Riverside County developed multiple myeloma after prolonged exposure to benzene and other industrial solvents. The employer failed to provide adequate protective equipment.
Settlement Details: The case settled for $2.4 million, with the employer and chemical supplier sharing liability. The plaintiff’s attorneys used expert testimony to link chemical exposure to the cancer diagnosis.
4. $2.1 Million – Secondary Exposure from Contaminated Clothing (2020)
Case Summary: A woman in San Diego was diagnosed with multiple myeloma after years of laundering her husband’s work clothes, which were contaminated with asbestos and industrial chemicals. Her husband worked in shipbuilding.
Settlement Details: The family received $2.1 million through a combination of asbestos trust fund claims and product liability settlements. The case highlighted the dangers of secondary exposure.
5. $1.9 Million – PFAS Contamination in Drinking Water (2023)
Case Summary: A resident of a California community near a military airport developed multiple myeloma after long-term exposure to PFAS-contaminated groundwater. The lawsuit was part of a broader environmental litigation against AFFF manufacturers.
Settlement Details: The plaintiff received $1.9 million in a negotiated settlement. The payout covered medical costs, relocation expenses, and loss of quality of life.
6. $1.6 Million – Talcum Powder Product Liability Case (2019)
Case Summary: A woman in Los Angeles filed a product liability lawsuit against a cosmetics company after developing multiple myeloma. Her attorneys argued that long-term use of talcum powder products containing asbestos contributed to her illness.
Settlement Details: The case settled for $1.6 million. The company denied liability but agreed to settle to avoid trial.
7. $1.5 Million – Chemical Exposure in School Renovation Project (2022)
Case Summary: A school maintenance worker in Orange County developed multiple myeloma after exposure to lead-based paint and industrial sealants during a renovation project. The school district and contractors were named in the lawsuit.
Settlement Details: The worker received $1.5 million in a structured settlement. The case emphasized the importance of workplace safety and proper chemical handling protocols.
8. $1.3 Million – Roundup Exposure in Landscaping Work (2021)
Case Summary: A landscaper in Northern California was diagnosed with multiple myeloma after years of using Roundup without protective gear. The lawsuit alleged failure to warn and defective product design.
Settlement Details: The plaintiff received $1.3 million in a confidential settlement. The case was part of a wave of glyphosate-related lawsuits filed across California.
9. $1.1 Million – Firefighting Foam Exposure in Civilian Airport (2020)
Case Summary: A maintenance worker at a civilian airport developed multiple myeloma after exposure to AFFF used in fire suppression systems. The lawsuit targeted foam manufacturers and airport contractors.
Settlement Details: The case settled for $1.1 million. The plaintiff’s legal team cited EPA warnings and internal documents showing long-term health risks of PFAS chemicals.
10. $950,000 – Environmental Exposure Near Industrial Site (2018)
Case Summary: A resident living near an industrial site in Bakersfield developed multiple myeloma after years of exposure to airborne toxins. The lawsuit alleged negligent emissions and failure to monitor air quality.
Settlement Details: The case settled for $950,000. The payout included funds for medical care and relocation.
Why These Cases Matter
These settlements demonstrate:
- The serious health consequences of chemical exposure
- The importance of corporate accountability
- The financial burden on victims and families
- The role of expert testimony and scientific evidence in proving causation
Filing a Multiple Myeloma Lawsuit in California
If you or a loved one developed multiple myeloma due to chemical exposure, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages (if applicable)
A California toxic exposure attorney can help you gather evidence, consult medical experts, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact a California Multiple Myeloma Lawyer Today
If you’ve been affected by multiple myeloma and suspect chemical exposure may be the cause, contact an experienced California personal injury lawyer today for a free consultation. Let us help you seek justice and secure the financial compensation you need for recovery.
References
- Multiple Myeloma Lawsuit | Roundup Lawyer, Attorney
- AFFF Multiple Myeloma Lawsuit | TorHoerman Law
- Roundup Lawsuit Update: Are Massive Payouts Coming in 2025?
- California Department of Public Health – Cancer Clusters and Environmental Exposure