If you or a loved one is one of the many patients harmed by talcum or talc-based powder, you may be eligible for a legal claim. These powders — colloquially known as baby powder — have been linked to the development of cancer for decades, but manufacturers have marketed them as harmless for 125 years.
Unfortunately, the tradition of minimizing the dangers posed by talc-based powders means that many people have been unknowingly exposed to this health risk. Peterson & Associates, P.C. can help you hold these negligent corporations accountable for the terrible injury they have brought to you. Even if you are going up against a large corporation with global influence, there are viable legal options available.
Don’t wait any longer. Call 816-888-8888 to discuss your legal options today.
The History of Talcum and Talc-Based Powders
Talc, a soft white powder, was generally believed to be safe for use, but since it is mined from the earth and forms near asbestos deposits, the final product could easily contain asbestos in trace amounts. For this reason, researchers suggested for years that talc-based powders put consumers at risk of developing cancer, yet these products remained readily stocked on shelves for everyday use.
According to The New York Times, public concern over these products being potentially contaminated with asbestos began in 1980. These concerns were not unique to consumers, as internal documents from Johnson & Johnson revealed that the corporation had been worried about the potential presence of asbestos in their baby powder since the early 1970s. Then, in 1982, Harvard University studied common talcum powder use on genital areas, such as on the perineum, and on sanitary napkins. These researchers discovered that people who regularly used talc-based powder in one of these ways were at a 92% higher risk of developing ovarian cancer than people who did not, or a 228% higher risk if they used the product in both of these ways.
These findings did not result in the immediate recall of talc-based powders, however. In fact, it was not until May 2020 that Johnson & Johnson finally recalled its talc-based powder in all of North America. Only a month later, a jury verdict was upheld by the Missouri Court of Appeals, which ruled in favor of 22 women who alleged they developed ovarian cancer as a result of using Johnson & Johnson’s talc-based powder. To date, the “family corporation” has faced thousands of lawsuits over their baby powder and its relation to not only ovarian cancer but also mesothelioma.
How Do I Know if I Qualify for a Case?
If you believe that you or a loved one developed cancer — ovarian or mesothelioma — as a result of using talcum or talc-based powder, there is a strong chance that you are eligible to file a claim against the manufacturing company. These companies have a legal and ethical obligation to warn consumers of any life-threatening dangers their products pose. Therefore, if they failed to warn you of such a risk, and you suffered injuries as a result, you deserve compensation for their lack of care.
Should I File a Personal Claim or Join a Class Action Suit?
When it comes to which legal route you should take, there are generally two options for talcum powder lawsuits: a personal claim or a class action suit. A plaintiff filing the former can attempt to recover damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, reduced quality of life, and more. As for the latter, multiple plaintiffs file one suit together in an attempt to reclaim the money lost from buying the product. It is advisable to consult with a professional attorney to determine the best path to justice for you.
Work with a Peterson & Associates, P.C. Lawyer
Our talcum powder attorneys have the experience needed to seek justice on your behalf. We have accepted a multitude of product liability claims and won multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements on our clients’ behalf. We are not known for taking shortcuts nor the easy way out and have garnered a reputation for approaching each case as if it were our very own. Our award-winning legal team at Peterson & Associates, P.C. is acclaimed by Super Lawyers®, the Million Dollar Advocates Forum®, and more!