At least two types of cancer are caused by talc-based powders, according to medical research and the lawsuits filed against the manufacturers of cosmetic talcum powders. The research and lawsuits generally involve one of two types of cancer:
- Ovarian cancer in those who used talcum powder products in their underwear and for personal hygiene use
- Mesothelioma in those who used cosmetic powders and inhaled them into their lungs
If you developed ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, or another type of reproductive tract or lung cancer after using talcum powder products, a link between your cancer diagnosis and the alleged asbestos contamination in many talc-based products may entitle you to recover monetary damages. You will likely qualify to file a lawsuit and join the ongoing multidistrict litigation (MDL) related to these defective and dangerous products or take other action.
Upon qualifying to join the talcum powder multidistrict litigation (MDL), a Talcum Powder Lawsuit Lawyer from Friedman & Simon, L.L.P. will immediately begin crafting a robust case to support your lawsuit.
How Cosmetic Talc Products Cause Cancer in Women
While there has been some evidence that other types of cancer, especially cervical cancer and lung cancer, have a potential link to talcum powder use, the two primary types of cancer involved in MDL-2738 are ovarian cancer and mesothelioma.
Ovarian Cancer
Talcum powder is most commonly linked to epithelial ovarian tumors, but these are also the most common type of malignant ovarian tumors overall. Studies and anecdotal evidence link talc-product use to almost every type of ovarian cancer.
In 2017, a meta-analysis published in the European Journal of Cancer Prevention confirmed a “weak but statistically significant association” between women using talc-based products on their panties, sanitary napkins, or genitals and the development of ovarian cancer a decade or more later.
The following year, a study published in Epidemiology confirmed “a consistent association” between these powders and ovarian cancer.
Pleural Mesothelioma
Most mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the lungs and chest cavity, known as the pleura, which is why most asbestos-linked mesothelioma is known as pleural malignant mesothelioma. People breathe in the asbestos fibers, which then become embedded in the lung tissue and cause irritation and, eventually, malignant growth. This process could take several decades.
Most cases of pleural mesothelioma occur in workers who had occupational exposure to asbestos or asbestos-containing products. However, a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine has also proven a link to cosmetic talcum powder products in dozens of mesothelioma case studies.
Plaintiffs Allege That Cosmetic Talc Products Contain Asbestos
In each type of cancer caused by talc, it seems the talc particles became embedded in tissues inside the body. This condition generally occurred after long-term use of products for cosmetic or personal hygiene uses. Tissue samples from women with ovarian cancer have contained talc particles, and mesothelioma is occurring in women with no other known asbestos exposure but a history of using talcum powder products.
How does talc use expose users to asbestos, which is a known carcinogen and forbidden in many applications in the United States for more than 30 years? Talc is easily contaminated by asbestos fibers when mined, and mines and manufacturers who do not take steps to safeguard their supply could be selling talcum powder products that contain at least trace amounts of asbestos.
Talc-based products are common in many applications and industries. While the lawsuits in MDL-2738 are primarily centered on talcum powders used for cosmetic or personal hygiene purposes. Building materials, school and art supplies, and home repair products might also contain talc.
Some of the common powders named in MDL-2738 include:
- Johnson’s Baby Powder
- Other baby powder products
- Shower to Shower
- Gold Bond powders
- Other types of body powders
Taking Legal Action Based on a Talcum Powder Cancer Diagnosis
If you have a diagnosis of ovarian cancer or mesothelioma and a history of using talcum powder for personal hygiene uses, you could qualify to join MDL-2738, currently underway in the U.S. District Court – District of New Jersey as of August 2020. Let our team review your case for free. If you qualify, our legal team will:
- Keep you updated on your case
- Identify liable parties
- Communicate with all parties for you
- Gather evidence
- Determine a value for your case
These cases require working with medical experts to review your medical records, document your powder use, and get a better understanding of your diagnosis. We also document our clients’ expenses related to their diagnosis. This makes it possible to prove your damages and pursue fair compensation.
Speak With One of Our Team Members Today About Your Case
Discuss your options with a member of the Friedman & Simon, L.L.P. team today for free. Our team offers complimentary case evaluations for potential plaintiffs in MDL-2738. Call (516) 932-0400 to get started. Filing this type of case will cost you nothing out of pocket.