An Illinois talcum powder cancer lawsuit could be an option for women who used baby powder products for feminine hygiene and developed ovarian cancer. Some women who have used products containing talcum powder over extended periods of time have alleged that their use of the product has contributed to increased rates of ovarian cancer. Affected women and their families may be able to seek compensation for their injuries with the help of an Illinois talcum powder lawsuit attorney.
For more information, contact Attorney Group for Illinois 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 Illinois talcum powder cancer lawsuit attorney who can assist you throughout the legal process.
Talcum Powder Uses
According to Geology.com, the mineral talc (the main ingredient in talcum powder) has a variety of commercial uses thanks to its numerous beneficial properties. Known as a hydrous magnesium silicate mineral, talc has featured historically in the creation of bowls, sculptures, pipes and many other items. Talc can also be used a lubricant and therefore is a common component of oral medications, and can effectively absorb both moisture and oils. Because of its diverse characteristics, talc can be found in many different consumer products.
For instance, talc is commonly used in the creation of plastics because of its ability to improve stiffness. Talc has also been used to enhance paint colors, as well as being utilized as a filler in paper products and as a finishing material in ceramics. As for cosmetic applications, talc is a common ingredient in antiperspirants and is frequently applied as a base in a number of cosmetics. Most baby powders contain talc due the substance’s absorptive properties.
Talc Based Products and Ovarian Cancer
Because talcum powder works well in the absorption of moisture, many women use products containing talc (such a baby powder) to reduce sweating and chafing in intimate areas. Usage in this manner has led to the supposed link between talcum powder and cancer of the ovaries as a result of talc particles making their way through the vagina to the reproductive organs. This is particularly relevant to those women who have used talcum powder over the course of their lifetimes, as length of use seems to be a factor in the increased cancer risk.
As illustrated by the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer is a very serious condition requiring substantial medical treatment. Symptoms of ovarian cancer typically include a frequent and/or urgent feeling of urination, pain in the abdomen or pelvic region, digestive issues (such as feeling full quickly while eating) and bloating. Those suffering from ovarian cancer may also experience nausea/upset stomach, pain during sex, changes in menstruation, weight loss and a feeling of fatigue or tiredness.
Talcum Powder Cancer Lawsuits
Over the last few years, the possible risks of talcum powder have been brought to the attention of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by consumers worried about potential side effects of the product. As a result, the FDA elected to test several talc-based products commercially available to determine whether these products contained asbestos, which could be a contributing factor to increased rates of cancer (sites where talc is mined can also contain asbestos, since these minerals are often found in the same vicinity).
While the samples of cosmetic-grade talc tested by the FDA were found to be free of asbestos, the agency warns that samples were submitted by only four suppliers, which precludes assurance that all products currently on the market are free of carcinogens. Additionally, the family of a deceased woman alleging that a lifetime usage of talcum powder contributed to her ovarian cancer was recently awarded $72 million in damages. The family claimed that Johnson & Johnson failed to provide suitable warnings about the potential dangers of their product, which prevented consumers from making an informed decision.
How an Illinois 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:
- 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 Illinois talcum powder cancer lawsuit attorney to learn more about their rights and remedies.
The Time to Pursue a Claim is Limited. Contact Us Today.
For more information, contact Attorney Group for Illinois. You can fill out the form on this page, call us at the number listed at the top of the page, or email us at info@attorneygroup.com.
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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.
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