Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuits
Talk to an experienced Plantation, FL attorney who is ready to fight for you
We trust manufacturers to provide us with safe products. This is especially true when these products are used directly on our bodies. It is now emerging that manufacturers of hair relaxers and straighteners knowingly included chemicals in their products that have been shown to increase the risk of developing cancer and other health issues.
At Feingold Posner Draizin, we are accepting cases against these manufacturers to hold them liable for their actions. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling product liability lawsuits against manufacturers. We have the resources and skills to help you recover financial compensation and ensure that justice is served.
The dangers of extended use of hair relaxers and straighteners
Recent studies have revealed a link between the increased risk of developing cancer and various chemicals used in hair relaxers and straighteners. These chemicals include:
- Lye or sodium hydroxide – This chemical is also found in bleach, public water treatment plants, and aluminum.
- Bisphenol A – This chemical is used to manufacture polycarbonate plastic products such as beverage containers, compact discs, and vehicle parts.
- Formaldehyde – This chemical is present in various products in the home. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified this chemical as a carcinogen.
The chemicals identified above have been classified as endocrine disruptors. This means that they interfere with the natural production of developmental, immunity, neurological, and reproductive hormones. These chemicals break down very slowly and can be extremely hazardous to the environment. Even small doses of these chemicals can have adverse effects on health.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Science (NIEHS) published a study in October 2022 that revealed a connection between the chemicals in these hair products and the development of uterine and breast cancer. Following the publication of the study, lawsuits from all over the country have been filed against manufacturers of hair relaxers and straighteners. There is also a proposed class action lawsuit.
Some of the most common injuries associated with the extended use of hair relaxers and straighteners include:
- Ovarian cancer
- Uterine cancer
- Endometrioid cancer
Many of those affected are African American women, who are more likely to use hair relaxers and straighteners from an early age. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury as a result of using these products, it’s important to learn about your rights and options. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with a Plantation, FL personal injury attorney.
Am I at risk of developing cancer if I previously used a hair relaxer or straightener?
It depends. Previous hair relaxers or straighteners may not necessarily cause cancer. Studies on hair relaxers and straighteners show that extended use of these products may lead to the development of cancers, including breast cancer and uterine cancer. An infrequent or singular application does not put you at risk. If you are currently using a hair relaxer or straightener, you may be eligible to recover compensation in a product liability claim.
I have been using hair relaxers and straighteners for years. Why wasn’t I aware of the risks until now?
Studies that have established a relationship between hair relaxers and cancer have only recently been released to the public. These studies have been carried out over decades. It has taken a long time for scientists to collect and understand the data that was presented. Many of the potentially hazardous chemicals in the product studied were disguised as fragrances. In addition, many of those who used the products were not aware of the dangers that these products posed to them.
How can a lawyer help?
An experienced product liability lawyer can:
- Gather medical records, expert medical opinions, and other relevant health documents that demonstrate the extent of your injuries
- Work with scientific experts who can provide testimony or reports that support the claim that the product is inherently dangerous or was improperly manufactured or formulated
- Negotiate with insurance companies and legal teams to secure a fair settlement that covers medical costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any other compensations
- Present your case to a jury in court, if needed.
Let our law firm handle your hair relaxer cancer claim
All of the attorneys at Feingold Posner Draizin know how to deal with insurance company tactics designed to pay you less. That’s because we all used to represent insurance companies. We know how they approach these cases, what legal strategies are effective in moving your claim forward, and what it takes to recover the compensation you deserve.
You may not be sure if you need a lawyer or even if you have a case. Set your mind at ease by getting answers to your questions. If you have been using relaxers and straighteners for an extended period of time and have developed a health issue that could be connected to the use of these hair products, contact us to schedule a free consultation.