When a company sells a certain product and claims it is safe to use, consumers should be able to trust that they will not suffer unnecessary or unexpected harm from the product. Unfortunately, many products on the market have caused serious injuries to users–from pharmaceuticals to foods to appliances and more. One potentially harmful product that has been in the spotlight in recent years is talcum powder.
Talcum powder has been sold for nearly 100 years, specifically marketed to babies and women. Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder has been used to soothe sensitive skin and Shower to Shower has been used as an absorbent body powder for adults. Specifically, many women regularly use talcum powder for feminine hygiene and apply the powder to their genital area. Johnson & Johnson has marketed its products as safe for this type of use.
Recently, a number of lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson alleging that the company’s talcum powder products have caused serious and even fatal side effects in users. If you believe that you have suffered a serious injury or medical condition because of talcum powder, you should discuss your legal rights with an experienced talcum powder lawsuit attorney as soon as possible. At The Hannon Law Firm, we are taking cases involving talc injuries, so do not hesitate to consult with a member of our team today.
Injuries from Talcum Powder
The most common medical condition associated with long-term use of talcum powder for feminine hygiene is ovarian cancer. Medical researchers have said that talc particles can travel through the female reproductive system and become lodged in the ovaries. Talc fibers are durable and difficult to remove from the body. Over time, these fibers can cause inflammation, which causes tumors to develop and can lead to ovarian cancer. ThevAmerican Cancer Society specifically addresses talcum powder use as a factor in determining risk for ovarian cancer.
The American Cancer Society reports that more than 22,000 women will be newly diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year. In addition, over 14,000 women will lose their battle with ovarian cancer on an annual basis. The chances of surviving ovarian cancer depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer and whether it has metastasized, which means it has spread to other parts of the body. Even if you survive ovarian cancer, treatment can be a long and painful process and can include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
There are many signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. Because early detection can improve chances of survival, you should always seek a medical evaluation if you believe you have any of these signs or symptoms:
● Pain in the abdomen or pelvis;
● Urgent or frequent urination;
● Fatigue;
● Bloating;
● Appetite problems and weight loss;
● Constipation;
● Stomach pain and upset;
● Changes in your menstrual cycle;
● Pain during sexual intercourse;
● Back pain.
Holding Talc Companies Liable for Your Losses
If you are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, you face a long road of extensive and costly medical treatment. Hospitalization, surgery, chemotherapy, palliative care, medical equipment, and medications can all result in overwhelming medical bills. In addition, most people undergoing cancer treatment are too sick to work, which causes you to lose income and you may fall behind on your bills. If a victim of ovarian cancer does not survive, the family can suffer significant emotional, mental, and financial losses, as well.
As with other types of personal injury, if another party caused an injury, that party should be held liable for any losses incurred. If you or a family member trusted the safety of talcum powder, used this product for years and then developed ovarian cancer as a result, the company should compensate you for your losses. The Hannon Law Firm can help you recover these financial losses, as well as compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, or wrongful death if you have lost a family member.
Legal Issues in Products Liability Cases
We can help you recover for your losses by filing a claim for personal injury under the legal concept of products liability. These cases are often complex and require a significant amount of evidence to link your cancer with your use of talcum powder. Products liability cases can require the use of experts and many other resources. In addition, Johnson & Johnson is a huge corporation and has many resources with which to defend against a legal claim. The attorneys at the Hannon Law Firm have the skill and resources to go up against large companies in court so that your rights are protected. The following are some legal issues that are important in products liability cases in Colorado:
Statute of limitations — Under Colorado Law, you generally have just two years from the date of your injury to file a products liability claim. For this reason, you should never delay in talking to our attorneys if you believe you have suffered injury due to talcum powder or any other product.
Proving negligence — In order to hold Johnson & Johnson liable for your losses, you must prove that the company was negligent in one of the following ways:
● Selling a defectively designed product;
● Selling a defectively manufactured product;