Mesothelioma Risks: How Asbestos Contamination in Talc Products Can Impact Your Health
Around 3,000 individuals are diagnosed with mesothelioma, a highly aggressive form of cancer, in the US each year. Although there are various reasons why a person might develop mesothelioma, there’s an alarming connection between this cancer and talc exposure. But how can talc potentially cause cancer, and what should you do if you develop mesothelioma after talc exposure?
What is Talc?
Talc is a natural mineral compound. It absorbs moisture well, reduces odors, and is an anticaking agent. It’s frequently found in the products most people use every day, such as:
● Baby powders
● Deodorants
● Foot and body powders used by both men and women
● Cosmetics
● Household cleaning products
Talc itself is not inherently dangerous. The issue is where we find talc in the ground.
Talc and Asbestos
Talc, in its natural state, is oftenfound close to asbestos. Asbestos, another naturally occurring mineral, is arecognized carcinogen in humans, meaning it can cause cancer.
The significance is that any talc derived from the ground during the manufacturing process could contain asbestos. And so, any product used containing talc may also be contaminated with asbestos.
As noted, asbestos is linked to various types of cancers, the most serious of which is mesothelioma. But what ismesothelioma, and how can talc impact our health? Let’s consider these questions.
What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the tissues lining our organs. It most commonly affects the lung lining (pleural mesothelioma) but can affect any body part, including the ovaries in females, the abdominal cavity, and the heart.
Mesothelioma is usually fatal. It’s highly aggressive but rarely diagnosed until a late stage.
How Exposure Occurs
Asbestos is fibrous. When disrupted, it becomes airborne. When inhaled, these tiny fibers can lodge in the lung lining, which is why pleural mesothelioma is the most common diagnosis. However, it can also be ingested or enter the body when applied near, for example, the reproductive organs.
Over time, these fibers can lead to cancer. Repeated exposure to asbestos, even at modest levels, is therefore a serious concern.
Reducing the Impact of Talc on Your Health
Although avoiding talc altogether is challenging, you can reduce the risks by being careful about the products you use. For example, you might choose talc-free products or avoid loose cosmetics such as face powder.
Where possible, choose natural products and stay alert to product recalls. Research your favorite products and consider if there are safer alternatives.
Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit
If you suspect that you’ve been exposed to asbestos through talc and you develop mesothelioma or another cancer, then you may be able to file a civil lawsuit to recover compensation. This typically involves suing the manufacturer of the talc-based product, e.g., baby powder, deodorant, or home cleaning products.
Proving mesothelioma caused by contaminated talc is a complex task. You should retain an experienced attorney as soon as possible to evaluate the evidence and discuss your legal options. We will evaluate the medical evidence, consider where you may have been exposed to contaminated talc, and explain your legal rights.
You must bring a compensation claim within a certain timeframe, or you will lose your right to seek damages. The time limit varies by state, but you typically only have a few years from the date of being diagnosed with an asbestos disease to have a few years from the date of being diagnosed with an asbestos disease to claim.
Wrongful Death Claims for Talc Exposure
Have you lost a loved one, such as a spouse, to mesothelioma? You may have the right to bring a wrongful death lawsuit against the company responsible for the victim’s asbestos exposure. Wrongful death lawsuits allow those left behind to seek compensation for various losses, including medical bills and funeral expenses. Our lawyers can explain if you have a case and how to pursue it.
Let Madeksho Law Fight for Your Rights to Justice
If you develop mesothelioma after talc exposure or you lose a loved one to this disease, Madeksho Law is here for you. As experienced asbestos lawyers, we champion the rights of mesothelioma victims – and their families – every day. We will stand with you and do everything possible to secure the compensation you deserve.
Don’t hesitate to call us at 888-910-6376 to discuss your case. Every initial consultation is free, and we don’t charge anything unless your case is successful.
