the cancer causing risks of talcum powder

Talcum is a mineral made up mainly of magnesium, silicon and oxygen. It is used in various cosmetic and beauty products, from baby powders to eye shadows. But, it has recently been labeled by the World Health Organization as “possibly carcinogenic to humans" when used as a feminine hygiene product.

Due to an influx of talc-free powders available to consumers, it is evident that many manufacturers have known for a while that talc products can sometimes be contaminated with dangerous asbestos. Yet, companies like Johnson & Johnson (J&J) have continued to market products containing talc to customers for decades. But with another significant study linking talcum powder to cancer, this may soon some to an end.

Cancer and Talcum Powder

The National Cancer Institute has found that using talc products, such as baby powder, for feminine hygiene could increase the risk of ovarian cancer by 30 to 60 percent. Another study found that talc powders could increase the risk of ovarian cancer by about one-third.

Companies like J&J are being held responsible for their failure to warn consumers about the potential cancer-causing risks associated with their talc products. So far in 2016, J&J has lost two cases in which the plaintiffs were able to assert that the company was aware of the risks, and that the women who used their product for many years deserved compensation for the role it may have played in the development of their ovarian cancer.

What to Do If You Believe You’ve Been Harmed by a Talc Product:

  1. Get the medical assistance that you need.
  2. Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion.
  3. Remain compliant. Keep notes and records.
  4. Talk to an attorney like Hupy and Abraham about your case.

Should you file a lawsuit after a talc-containing product was used?

A serious diagnosis and medical issue can result in enormous losses, both financial and otherwise. If someone else, such as a manufacturer, is responsible for your health condition, they are also responsible for the costs that health condition incurs. You may be entitled to the following types of damages if you or a member of your family has been harmed by talc:

  • Economic damages. These damages include the actual money lost by defective products. Economic damages include medical costs, lost wages, lost future income and lost earning power.
  • Noneconomic damages. A serious medical condition caused by a defective product can greatly affect your life, abilities and happiness. A liable manufacturer may owe you compensation for any pain and suffering, mental anguish, permanent disabilities, loss of companionship, loss of consortium or lowered quality of life.
  • Punitive damages. If a company has been grossly negligent or if it is determined that the company has committed an egregious wrong, they may be asked to pay their victims more money as a punishment and as a deterrent. The amount received for punitive damages varies widely.

At Hupy and Abraham, we are dedicated to helping those who have been harmed by defective products and are committed to seeking justice for these victims and their families. Please download a free copy of our report, Talc: What You Need to Know About It, so that you can make an informed decision about what to do next.

If you have any additional questions, please contact us in person! Call us at 800-800-5678, or start a live chat with us anytime at Hupy.com

Jill Erin Wellskopf
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Director of Marketing, Hupy and Abraham