A growing number of consumers are filing lawsuits over cancer diagnoses they allege were caused by the use of talcum powder, including mesothelioma.

What is Talcum Powder?

Some talc in its natural form contains asbestos, according to the American Cancer Society, because the substances are often mined very near each other.

According to Health.com, while the FDA does not allow talcum powder and other talc products to contain asbestos, some claim that talc products may contain traces of asbestos, placing consumers at risk. Indeed, current regulations do not necessitate cosmetics to be reviewed and approved by the FDA before they’re on the market, so it cannot be guaranteed that these products do not continue to contain asbestos.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos
is a mineral that was once widely used in a number of industries, but has in the last several decades been heavily restricted after it became known that the substance is carcinogenic, or capable of causing cancer.

What is Mesothelioma?

The Mayo Clinic says that mesothelioma is an asbestos-related disease that affects the thin membranes of the chest and abdomen. While more exposure to asbestos (either in duration or quantity) places people more at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease, any amount of exposure to asbestos carries with it some risk.

Does Talcum Powder Cause Mesothelioma?

A growing number of people are claiming that trace amounts of asbestos fibers in talcum powder products can, with longtime use, lead to diagnosis with mesothelioma.

According to a major Reuters investigation released in December 2018, internal documents from pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson showed that for a period of around 30 years at least, the company’s raw talc tested positive for asbestos, but the company kept this information from federal regulators and the public alike.

However, studies of the link between talcum powder and asbestos cancers like mesothelioma cannot be completely unbiased, because much of the data relies on the faithful reporting and memory of talcum powder use over time. The connection between talcum powder and mesothelioma cancer continues to be investigated, but no conclusive link has yet been made.

Talc and ovarian cancer have reportedly been linked for decades. Findings are inconclusive, though, and the FDA is continuing to research this association.

Can You File a Talcum Powder Lawsuit?

A growing number of consumers are filing lawsuits over talcum powder cancer. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after the longtime use of talcum powder, you may be able to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation. Of course, filing a lawsuit cannot undo the pain and suffering caused by mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases, nor can it bring a loved one back, but it can at least help to alleviate the financial burden incurred by medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

Top Class Actions can connect you with an experienced attorney that can help you determine if you have a claim and navigate this complex litigation.