How cosmetic talc can be a danger to your health

When you purchase a consumer product, you assume that it will be safe to use and not cause you any unnecessary harm. Unfortunately, there are times when consumers suffer harm due to unsafe products, but sometimes the extent of this harm is not immediately evident. Cosmetic talc is an example of a seemingly safe product that has a connection to causing significant medical problems for individuals who have used these products throughout the years.

Talc is a relatively common material found in many different consumer products, ranging from baby powder to pharmaceutical products. The mining of it occurs in places in which you can also find asbestos, a naturally occurring material proven to cause deadly forms of cancer after exposure. If not adequately tested, it is possible that mined talc could contain asbestos. It is the responsibility of every manufacturer to ensure that products do not contain this dangerous substance.

Will it definitely cause cancer?

It is impossible to predict the likelihood of developing cancer after exposure to talc contaminated with asbestos. The American Cancer Society states that there is no clear link with the development of cancer and talcum powder use. Some studies have found, however, that women who have used products containing talc have an elevated risk of developing ovarian cancer, as well as cancer of the fallopian tubes and uterus. If there is any suspicion about the danger of a consumer product, the manufacturer could initiate a recall.

Typically, consumers who developed certain types of cancers due to asbestos did so after a significant period of exposure. In any form, asbestos is a carcinogenic substance when inhaled over a long period of time, and the consequences of that exposure are not always immediately known. In fact, those with exposure to asbestos may not learn until years later that they have developed cancer as a result.

Are you a victim?

If you are suffering the consequences of long-term exposure to contaminated talc products, you do not have to suffer in silence. It is possible there are legal options available to you through the form of a civil claim. It is in your interests to learn about the legal options available to you as a North Carolina victim as soon as possible, starting with an assessment of your case.