An Arkansas talcum powder cancer lawsuit could be an option for women who used baby powder products and developed ovarian cancer. Many women use baby powders containing the mineral talc for feminine hygiene purposes. While these products are claimed to be safe by manufacturers, instances of ovarian cancer have been reported by some women who have used talcum powder in this manner over extended periods of time. Affected women and their families may be able to seek compensation for their injuries with the help of an Arkansas talcum powder lawsuit attorney.
For more information, contact Attorney Group for Arkansas today. Our consultations are free, confidential and without any obligation on your part. We can help answer your questions, and if you choose to pursue a claim we can connect you with an affiliated attorney who can assist you throughout the legal process.
Talcum Powder Uses
Derived from talc, a naturally occurring mineral made up of magnesium, silicon and oxygen, talcum powder has numerous applications. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), talcum powder is a common ingredient in many different consumer products thanks to its inherent absorptive properties. For instance, it is frequently added to foodstuffs (such as chewing gum) and is also used in the creation of oral pharmaceutical tablets to facilitate ease of swallowing. It is most often used in cosmetics, thanks to its ability to smooth and soften skin, as well as its capacity for moisture absorption. Because of these effects, many women apply talcum powder to their intimate areas to prevent sweating and uncomfortable rashes from occurring.
Talcum Powder and Respiratory Risks
While talcum powder has been deemed safe for a variety of commercial uses, it has also been associated with some very serious medical conditions in the past, including highly damaging respiratory issues. The National Institutes of Health bring to light the possibility of significant lung damage occurring as a result of talc-inhalation over time based on the medical effects of workers exposed to the mineral.
For those working in mines where talc is found, the development of pulmonary talcosis is considered a significant occupational threat. This condition is characterized by a lingering cough and labored breathing, along with the development of nodules on the lungs and eventual scarring. Because damaging exposure to talc occurs over a length of time, its role in the development of harmful lung conditions is typically overlooked.
Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer
In addition to the inhalation risks, talcum powder has also been linked with an increased risk of ovarian cancer in women. The substance is presumed to make its way through the vagina and into the reproductive organs. According to the Mayo Clinic, ovarian cancer entails a range of serious symptoms. While in the early stages this type of cancer may not be detectable, late-stage ovarian cancer can cause significant discomfort in the pelvic region, along with swelling or bloating in the abdominal areas. Other symptoms include weight loss, constipation and a continuous need to urinate. If left untreated, cancer of the ovaries can spread to other areas and ultimately result in death.
Talcum Powder Cancer Lawsuit
Some manufacturers of talcum powder have come under fire for their alleged failure to adequately warn consumers about all the possible dangers associated with products containing talc. This was the case for Johnson & Johnson, who was recently held accountable for the death of a woman who used their talc-based bath products for over 35 years.
As reported by NBC News, Johnson & Johnson was ordered pay the family of the deceased woman $72 million for the company’s alleged role in her death. The lawsuit claimed that the company was fully aware of the potential risks posed by their products but instead allegedly chose to conceal these risks from both consumers as well as regulatory agencies in order to increase sales.
How an Arkansas Talcum Powder Cancer Lawsuit Can Help
When people suffer from severe side effects from a dangerous or defective product, they may be entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages. The types of losses that can be recovered include:
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- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of an ability to work; and
- Pain and suffering
If a person dies from complications caused by a defective product, family members may be able to recover damages for the wrongful death of their loved one, including:
- Funeral expenses
- Medical expenses prior to death
- Loss of economic support; and
- Loss of companionship
If the conduct of a company in manufacturing and selling a product is found to be highly reckless, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the company and deter similar conduct in the future.
Affected women and their families are encouraged to seek the advice of an Arkansas talcum powder cancer lawsuit attorney to learn more about their rights and remedies.
For more information, contact Attorney Group for Arkansas today. When you contact us, an attorney will follow up with you to speak with you about your case or answer questions that you might have. There is no cost or obligation to speak with us, and any information you provide will be kept confidential.
Please note that the law limits the time you have to pursue a claim or file a lawsuit for an injury. If you think you have a case, you should not delay taking action.
