Most uses of this fiber have long been considered safe, so long as it isn’t destructed and the particles don’t become airborne. While this has been accepted by many, what others may not understand is that asbestos traces may be in other items that individuals use often.
One particular product under scrutiny is talcum powder. This has been in the news quite a bit over the recent years because of its own situations resulting in significant harm to users. Now, though, there are new stories involving both talcum powder and asbestos causing quite a stir.
Did a Manufacturer Know About Asbestos Traces In Their Product?
What happens when a product manufacturer puts others at risk without any kind of warning? While consumers may overlook this possibility because they trust the products they are using, there are countless situations when dangers arise from products once thought to be safe for use.
One of these manufacturers is Johnson & Johnson, a company recently put in the news because of their products and the damages that have come to light—namely, lawsuits by victims who have developed ovarian cancer following the long-term use of the company’s baby powder.
Now, there are new reports discussing the products talc-containing items. According to a Reuters report, there are indications of small amounts of asbestos—a cancer causing fiber—in their talc, which is their substance used to make the powdery baby items.
Johnson & Johnson was sued by 22 women alleging the company’s products caused ovarian cancer. As a result, the company faced a $4.7 billion verdict. This isn’t the first time that the baby product-making company was on the bad end of the news.
J&J also experienced claims in recent years that their golden baby shampoo product contained ingredients that would release formaldehyde. While the amount present may have been considered relatively safe, the company removed the chemicals from their brand.
The company continues to deny that their talc had any traces of asbestos. However, there are still nearly 12,000 individuals serving as plaintiffs against J&J in cases all associated with talc and the potential for harm as a result of use of harmful products.
Why Is Asbestos In Talc a Problem?
By now, most individuals should be aware of the potential damages that can result from the exposure to friable asbestos. While some applications of asbestos have been deemed somewhat safe—barring anything causes the fibers to become airborne—any product made with asbestos has the potential to be harmful.
When the fiber is included in items with talc, it means that the fibers are broken down—which is then they are their most dangerous and can cause serious problems. While talc is not something that is inhaled, how these products are used can create a number of problems and tell the story of how serious conditions can occur.
With talc, a common ingredient in baby powder, certain applications may result in the asbestos fibers entering the body in a number of ways. As a result, there is a chance that the individual may sustain significant harm.
This could be the story behind the potential ovarian cancer claims in which the women filed claims against Johnson & Johnson over their baby powder. Asbestos is a well-known carcinogen and it puts many people in serious danger, including women and babies.
The Negligence Involved
The United States Food and Drug Administration issued standards in 1973 regarding talc and how it is tested to ensure it is free from asbestos. These policies still remain in place to this day. However, at the time, Johnson & Johnson’s talc mines in Vermont were inspected. The results: trace amounts of asbestos fibers.
This puts individuals at risk, both past and present. It’s unfortunate as baby powder and other products can be helpful—but if asbestos is involved, it can do more harm than good and those affected may develop cancer associated with asbestos.
The report shows that the following talc products contain trace amounts of asbestos:
- Bauer and Black Baby Talc
- Friendship Garden Talcum Powder
- Cashmere Bouquet Body Talc
- Mennen Shave Talc
- ZBT Baby Powder with Baby Oil
- Faberge Brut Talc
- Old Spice Talcum Powder
There are more products from more brands that contain trace amounts of asbestos and it’s important for individual to carefully read labels before using said products. This is the most effective way to help prevent from serious and long-term harm.
What Victims Can Do Moving Forward
Unfortunately, individuals affected by products containing asbestos face a number of obstacles moving forward. However, if it is shown the manufacturer used asbestos in their talc and it led to cancer, you may be able to take legal action against the maker of the product in order to pursue compensation.
For years, manufacturers, individuals, and legal professionals have been aware of the problems with asbestos and the kind of harm it can cause. For years we have worked to hold manufacturers accountable when their products cause significant harm.
Victims have rights and should not have to endure the aftermath of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related cancers simply because manufacturers wanted to use the fibers of asbestos in their products. They should be held fully accountable for the damages they cause.
Part of the issue associated with asbestos, however, is that the effects of the illnesses are not always easily apparent. For instance, when asbestos results in mesothelioma, there is a latency period with mesothelioma of 10-30 years. This means that the affected individual may not even be aware of their health concerns for 10 to 30 years after the exposure.
With ovarian cancer or other cancers caused by the exposure to asbestos, it’s important to understand how important early detection is. If you have used any products with talc containing asbestos, or been exposed to asbestos, schedule a visit with your medical professional to get a routine check.
At Shrader & Associates, L.L.P., we have seen the overall effects of asbestos exposure first hand. We have seen countless individuals sustain serious harm from conditions caused by asbestos, impacting the victim and his or her family.
Any time a company puts their own profits over the safety of consumers, they should be heled accountable for their actions. Our mesothelioma attorneys work with you to determine the main cause of your condition, the exposure to asbestos, and whether or not the manufacturer was negligent.
Trust that we have your best interests in mind at all times and you get the caring, compassionate, and tenacious representation you need to move forward with confidence. Our goal is to protect your best interests, focusing on your well-being and guiding you through the difficult times that lie ahead.
Call our legal team today at (713) 787-3733 and speak with a legal professional who not only understands your rights, but can explain them to you and protect them every step of the way. We’re ready to help you.