Some consumer products you use may contain ingredients contaminated by the harmful substance asbestos. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that products made with talc could contain asbestos fibers. Manufacturers generally add talc to products to reduce moisture or create a “silky” texture. The minerals talc and asbestos, however, form together. Talc supplies from certain mining operations could contain asbestos.
Personal products made with contaminated talc may include baby powder and cosmetics. According to a New York Times report, gum, prescription pills and supplements could contain traces of asbestos-contaminated talc. Some components used to manufacture children’s toys and crayons might also contain asbestos.
Asbestos in consumer products could cause mesothelioma
The Environmental Working Group identified at least 2,100 personal care products made with contaminated talc, which retailers have since pulled from their shelves. As reported by ConsumerNotice.org, many of the goods contained loose powders that consumers might inhale or swallow.
Inhaling powders made from harmful carcinogens could lead to serious respiratory issues. Even small amounts of asbestos over time may cause mesothelioma, a cancer affecting the lungs, heart or stomach linings. According to the American Cancer Society, age and genes may increase the risk.
Cancers related to consumer products may require lawsuits
The Mayo Clinic explains that symptoms of mesothelioma affecting the lungs include shortness of breath and chest pain. Coughing painfully or finding lumps under the skin in the chest area may also reflect warning signs. Diagnostic tests could determine if asbestos contamination affected the lungs or other organs. According to the American Lung Association, mesothelioma treatments could include draining built-up fluids from the lungs and chest.
If asbestos-contaminated talc caused you to develop cancer, you may need to consider legal action to help in your recovery. The court could award damages to cover long-term medical treatments and lost wages.
