Nowadays, simply searching “talcum powder” on your internet browser produces numerous results detailing the dangers of talc products. Among the medical issues talcum powder can cause, cancer is one of the worst.
If you or a loved one has developed cancer as a result of talcum powder use, the personal injury lawyers at The Joel Bieber Firm want to help.
What Is Talcum Powder?
Talcum powder has been found in people’s homes for years. It has been regularly used for children in baby powder and by women in body powders and cosmetics.
Talcum powder is made from talc, a mineral consisting primarily of silicon, magnesium, and oxygen. Talc works well to prevent friction and absorb moisture, making it a popular product for preventing diaper rashes. Additionally, women use it in cosmetics to absorb oil on the face and for feminine hygiene purposes to remain fresh and eliminate odors.
The Dangers of Talcum Powder and Cancer
Talc, the primary ingredient in talcum powder, is natural and mined from the earth. Naturally, some talc contains asbestos. Asbestos is a dangerous substance causing various health issues, including cancer.
There are links to talcum powder and asbestos, but powder products do not contain warning labels of any sort. Many argue that talcum powder manufacturers have done a poor job of screening their talc products for the presence of asbestos.
Talcum powder can cause cancer in various ways. While product labels often include the phrase “external use only,” particles can travel inside the body. When used on the face, for example, a talcum powder product containing asbestos can be inhaled, increasing the chance of cancer.
While cancer does not appear overnight, continuous use of talcum powder products can lead to its development.
Types of Cancers Caused by Talcum Powder Use
Talcum powder has been strongly linked to cancer. While there are several types of cancers talcum powder use can produce, the most common kinds are detailed below.
Ovarian Cancer
Many women frequently use talcum powder for intimate hygiene. While talcum powder is applied externally, it can easily travel into the vagina and through the uterus and fallopian tubes to the ovaries. Because the body has difficulty flushing out fine particles, over time, the mineral can cause inflammation and create cancerous tumors.
If you’ve habitually used talcum powder around your genital region, it’s best to stay alert for signs or symptoms of ovarian cancer. Some of the significant symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
- Abdominal bloating
- Discomfort around the pelvic area
- Back pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Feeling full quickly when eating
- Frequent need to urinate
Ovarian cancer is often difficult to detect. If you’re experiencing any of the common ovarian cancer symptoms, it’s best to seek medical attention.
Mesothelioma
Because some talcum powder products contain asbestos, there is a risk of developing mesothelioma, a form of cancer strongly tied to asbestos.
Mesothelioma is a unique form of cancer attacking the thin layer of tissue covering internal organs. While the mesothelium covers a majority of organs, this cancer often develops in certain areas, including the lungs, abdomen, or heart.
Mesothelioma of the lungs is most common, as asbestos is inhaled and the fibers become embedded, causing tumors.
Symptoms vary depending on the location of cancer, but they can include:
- Chest pain
- Persistent and painful coughing
- Unexplained weight loss
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal swelling
- Nausea
Mesothelioma is one of the more serious and aggressive forms of cancer. Treatments for this type of cancer are available, but unfortunately, there is no cure.
Lung Cancer
The use of talcum powder may also cause lung cancer. Lung cancer is different from mesothelioma of the lungs — lung cancer develops in the lungs itself rather than the tissue surrounding the organ. However, similar to mesothelioma, lung cancer can develop from inhaling talcum powder.
The symptoms of lung cancer can include:
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing up blood
- Hoarseness
- Chest pain
- Unexplained weight loss
If you’ve used talcum powder or products that contain talc and develop any symptoms of lung cancer, speak to your doctor right away.
Brands Named in Talcum Powder Lawsuits
While various brands produce talcum powder, certain brands have already been named in cancer lawsuits, including but not limited to:
- Johnson & Johnson
- Colgate-Palmolive
- Gold Bond
- Old Spice
Talcum powder lawsuits have been ongoing for years. In fact, some of the lawsuits these companies, including Johnson & Johnson, have lost involve consumers who had used these products for decades.
Who’s Eligible to File a Talcum Powder Lawsuit?
To file a talcum powder cancer lawsuit, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements. Generally, you may be able to file a claim if the following apply to you:
- You used a talcum powder or talc product in the general cancer area almost daily for four or more years
- You’ve been formally diagnosed with cancer, including ovarian cancer or mesothelioma
- You were diagnosed anytime between 2000 and the present day, and you were 22 to 65 years of age at the time of your diagnosis
If you believe you may have a valid claim for a talcum powder cancer lawsuit, do not hesitate to discuss your situation with an experienced attorney. A lawyer can better understand your circumstances and provide sound legal advice.
Is There a Statute of Limitations?
Yes, most states impose a statute of limitations on talcum powder cancer lawsuits. Depending on your state, you may have one to four years to file your claim. Failing to do so can harm your chances of recovering financially from your losses.
Seek Justice with the Help of an Attorney
When you consult with a lawyer regarding your situation, your attorney can provide valuable legal guidance and determine the next steps. Talcum powder cancer lawsuits require the right knowledge and skills to help you get the outcome you deserve.
The legal team at The Joel Bieber Firm wants to protect your rights and pursue justice on your behalf. We understand how devastating and challenging it is to face serious medical issues and financial losses, and we want to help make it better for you.
When you’re ready to discuss your case, contact us to schedule your free consultation.
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