Beyond the Baby Aisle: Talcum Powder’s Role in Lung Cancer and Cancer Lawsuits
Talc is a mineral commonly used in everyday consumer goods, from deodorant to face powder. However, talc can also harbor another mineral known for causing serious health complications, including cancer: asbestos. Below, our asbestos attorneys explain the possible dangers of asbestos contaminated talc, the links between asbestos and cancer, and how you can limit your talc exposure as a US consumer.
The Link Between Talcum Powder and Asbestos
Manufacturers often use talcum powder since it absorbs moisture and can help to:
- Control odor
- Reduce friction
- Prevent caking
- Improve smoothness
These properties make talc ideal for cosmetics, body powders, and cleansers. And in fact, talc itself is harmless. It is, however, often found near asbestos deposits, which is where the danger lies.
Can Asbestos Cause Cancer?
Yes. Asbestos is a known carcinogen, meaning it’s a substance capable of causing cancer. It’s a threat when inhaled, and when the fibers enter a person’s body. Any exposure should be avoided.Although asbestos is commonly known to cause lung cancer and mesothelioma, it is also commonly associated with:
- Colon cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Laryngeal cancer
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Ovarian cancer
- Pharyngeal cancer
- Stomach cancer
In particular, mesothelioma, a type of cancer that develops in the lining of various tissues, is usually fatal.
Product Safety and Manufacturer’s Responsibilities
Just one gram of talcum powder can contain one million asbestos fibers. Manufacturers are expected to exercise due care when mining and treating talc to prevent contamination. However, they frequently place consumers at risk of asbestos exposure.Asbestos-related cancer is central to many high-profile lawsuits, including, notably, the Johnson & Johnson baby powder lawsuits. However, talc is not only found in the baby aisle; it’s the subject of lawsuits against companies, including:
- Avon Cosmetics
- Gold Bond
- Clinique
- Estee Lauder
- Whittaker Clark & Daniels
Victims who can prove their cancer is linked to asbestos exposure may be able to claim damages for losses, including medical bills, pain and suffering, and, in fatal claims, burial and funeral expenses. Our attorneys can help you understand your legal rights if you believe you’ve developed cancer from asbestos exposure.
Which Products Contain Talcum Powder?
It’s impossible to say for sure just how many products contain talc. However, some of the most common consumer products which may contain talcum powder include:
- Body Powder:
- Athletes often use body powder to absorb moisture and improve comfort. These products, including foot powders, may contain contaminated talc. Inhaling the dust from these powders could be harmful.
- Cosmetics:
- Talc can be found, even in minimal amounts, in lipsticks, face foundation, setting spray, cleanser, nail polish, eyeshadow, and face powder. Face powder presents a particular risk due to the dust particles.
Around the home, talc can be found in plastics, paint, and ceramics.
Avoiding Talcum Powder
It’s challenging to avoid talcum powder completely. However, you can take steps to avoid inhaling talc and, potentially, asbestos fibers.For example, the Environmental Working Group has compiled over 2,800 common consumer products, from cosmetics to self-tanner and shaving cream. Each product has a rating based on ingredient safety and data availability. The “safest” products have a low hazard score and good data availability, so this is a helpful list to browse if you’re trying to avoid talc-based products.Talcum powder is not always called “talcum powder,” either. It may be known as:
- Cosmetic talc
- Magnesium silicate
- Talc
- Talcum
Check product labels for these terms and review the Environmental Working Group website if unsure.Be selective about the products you buy. Your life is priceless. Do your research before you purchase any product – even those aimed at your health and wellness.
Contact an Asbestos Exposure Lawyer
If you have been diagnosed with cancer and have used talcum powder or talc-based products, contact the Madeksho Law Firm.Our experienced asbestos attorneys have been helping victims of asbestos exposure since 1972. We are passionate about holding manufacturers accountable for negligent asbestos exposure, and we are committed to helping victims get the compensation they deserve.To discuss whether you have a case, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll explain your legal options and next steps if you have a claim. Contact us online or call 888-910-MESO (6376) now.
