A person can use a hair relaxer product without realizing it is dangerous. Yet, the product can contribute to a cancer diagnosis that leaves a person in need of costly, time-intensive medical treatments. If this happens, a person can file a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit.
At John Foy & Associates, we are an experienced law firm that values superior service. We can connect you with a hair relaxer attorney who can help you pursue the maximum amount of damages. Our lawyer will do their part so you can win or settle your case as quickly as possible.
Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit Example
In October 2022, a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit was filed against cosmetics company L’Oreal and other parties. The lawsuit was filed by a plaintiff who was diagnosed with uterine cancer at the age of 28 in August 2018. Previously, the plaintiff had been using hair relaxer products since she was about 8 years old.
The plaintiff in this lawsuit is seeking more than $75,000 in damages. This litigation is ongoing, and it may linger for months or years. It may also prompt additional lawsuits to be filed against hair relaxer product companies.
For those interested in pursuing a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit, it helps to partner with a lawyer who understands the intricacies of product liability cases. This attorney can teach an individual about what it takes to submit a request for damages in a hair relaxer lawsuit. The lawyer can help this individual build a strong argument as well.
What Research Says About Hair Relaxers and Cancer
Research released in October 2022 highlights the correlation between hair relaxers and uterine cancer. In the research, a review of nearly 44,000 women between the ages of 35 and 74 was performed. These women had used a hair relaxer or other hair care product in the prior 12 months.
Ultimately, researchers identified 378 uterine cancer cases among participants. They noted these cases occurred within 11 years of using a hair care product. Researchers also pointed out that additional studies are necessary to fully understand the link between hair care products and cancer.
Those who experience uterine cancer that may be related to a hair relaxer should seek legal help. An attorney with hair relaxer case experience can help a uterine cancer patient file a lawsuit and pursue damages. The lawyer can help this individual get the compensation that can be used to cover their short- and long-term medical treatment costs.
How Uterine Cancer Caused by a Hair Relaxer Impacts a Person
There are two types of uterine cancer: endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma. The former occurs in the inner lining of the uterus and affects the reproductive system. Meanwhile, the latter happens inside the uterus’ muscle wall and is considered rare.
A person’s age, diet, family history, and other factors can impact their risk of uterine cancer. If a person is dealing with this type of cancer, this individual can experience a wide range of symptoms, such as:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Lower abdominal pain
- Pain in the pelvis
For those who experience any of these symptoms, go to a doctor. At this point, a doctor can conduct tests to determine if an individual is dealing with uterine cancer or another medical issue. If the tests show a patient is coping with uterine cancer relating to a hair relaxer, the doctor can provide details on how to manage any associated symptoms.
What It Takes to Manage Uterine Cancer Caused by a Hair Relaxer
Multiple treatment options can be used for uterine cancer. These include:
- Chemotherapy: Involves the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells
- Radiation Therapy: Requires targeted beams that eliminate cancer cells
- Hormone Therapy: Utilizes hormones or blocks hormones to combat cancer cells
- Immunotherapy: Strengthens the immune system to ward off cancer cells
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for uterine cancer, and the costs associated with managing cancer systems can be expensive. When coping with uterine cancer caused by a hair relaxer, consult with an attorney. Next, the lawyer can help an individual pursue damages from one or more at-fault parties.
A Look at Research into the Link Between Hair Relaxers and Breast Cancer
Along with uterine cancer, researchers have studied a possible link between hair relaxers and breast cancer. In one study, researchers concluded there was no association between using a hair relaxer and being diagnosed with breast cancer. Comparatively, in another study, researchers found African American women who used a hair relaxer that contained sodium hydroxide at least seven times a year were more prone to breast cancer than others.
Concerns persist about hair relaxer ingredients and the possibility that they can cause breast cancer, uterine cancer, and other types of cancer. Those who are concerned about using a hair relaxer that causes cancer should try not to panic. If a person has used a hair relaxer over the years and is worried about the health effects of their actions, this individual can stop using their hair relaxer product for the time being and consult with a doctor.
If a person has been coping with cancer and believes it may be linked to a hair relaxer product, contact a product liability attorney. This allows a person to meet with a lawyer who can get details about their cancer diagnosis and its impact on their life. The lawyer can explain how this individual can request damages from the hair relaxer product company and any other at-fault parties.
Other Health Conditions That May Be Linked to Hair Relaxers
Along with uterine and breast cancer, hair relaxers have been linked to other health problems, such as:
Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue grows on the outside of the uterus, resulting in pain and fertility problems. At least one person has filed a hair relaxer lawsuit relating to endometriosis. In the lawsuit, the plaintiff claims multiple beauty care product companies sold hair relaxers that contributed to their endometriosis diagnosis.
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids refers to noncancerous growths on the uterus that can cause constipation, leg pain, and other symptoms. In one study, researchers found women who used chemical hair relaxers were more likely to experience uterine fibroids than those who did not. Another study revealed hair relaxers contained many toxic chemicals banned in the European Union that were linked to uterine fibroids and other health issues.
Leukemia
Leukemia is cancer that impacts blood-forming tissues in the body. Some studies have linked leukemia to the use of hair dyes. It remains unclear if there is a link between leukemia and hair relaxers at this point.
Using a hair relaxer may seem like a good idea, but the long-term health effects of doing so can be significant. A doctor can diagnose and treat any health issues and determine if they are related to a person’s use of a hair relaxer or other hair care products. If so, an individual can begin medical treatments to address their health issues, as well as seek legal help to pursue damages from anyone responsible for these problems.
Hair Relaxer Companies Must Be Transparent About the Ingredients in Their Products
It is a hair relaxer company’s responsibility to provide consumers with details about the ingredients used in its products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has regulations in place for cosmetics companies nationwide. Failure to follow these regulations can result in penalties and lead to consumer lawsuits.
If a person uses a hair relaxer product that contributes to uterine cancer, it may be time to take a look at the product’s ingredients. In some cases, a hair relaxer contains formaldehyde and other ingredients that can cause health problems. If a person has been exposed to these ingredients for an extended period of time, this individual can experience health issues that persist long into the future.
In instances where a person believes a hair relaxer company was misleading or untruthful about its product’s ingredients, seek out legal help. A hair relaxer lawyer can review a legal claim at any time. The attorney can help an individual decide whether to move forward with a hair relaxer product liability lawsuit.
Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuits and Settlements
As of November 2022, there have been no class-action lawsuits filed against hair relaxer companies. People have filed individual lawsuits against these businesses. They claim a hair relaxer company caused their cancer or other health problems.
The damages that a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit plaintiff can receive varies. A potential payout can total thousands or millions of dollars, depending on the severity of damage that a hair relaxer product causes. There can also be instances when a hair relaxer lawsuit does not reach trial, since a plaintiff and defendant settle the case in advance.
For those considering filing a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit, an initial meeting with an attorney can be helpful. The meeting gives an individual an opportunity to explain their case and have a lawyer review it. Then, both parties can determine the best course of action regarding a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit.
How to Get Started with a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
If a person feels now is the right time to file a hair relaxer lawsuit, it is important to find a qualified attorney. The best lawyer for hair relaxer lawsuits can answer any questions that come their way. This attorney understands the importance of communication and collaboration and is willing to meet with an individual to explore their case in detail.
Prior to a case evaluation with a lawyer with hair relaxer case experience, an individual can prepare a list of questions. This helps a person get insights into what an attorney offers and how the lawyer will handle their hair relaxer case. Following the evaluation, this individual can make an informed decision on whether to move forward with a hair relaxer lawsuit.
If a person decides to file a hair relaxer lawsuit, their attorney will make sure the necessary paperwork is submitted within a reasonable time frame. A person must file a lawsuit in accordance with their home state’s statute of limitations. Once the lawsuit is filed, an attorney and their client can work together to make their case as strong as possible.
Evidence Plays a Vital Role in a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit
To date, the amount of research available relating to hair relaxers and cancer is limited. Fortunately, other evidence can be presented to support a plaintiff’s request for damages in a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit. An attorney with hair relaxer cancer lawsuit case expertise is well-equipped to help a plaintiff gather and analyze evidence.
A lawyer with a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit case experience knows the importance of evidence. As such, the attorney looks for evidence that will compel a judge or jury to rule in a plaintiff’s favor. This evidence can include medical records that highlight the severity of a plaintiff’s cancer diagnosis and the medical costs this individual has incurred due to their use of a hair relaxer product.
In addition to evidence, a lawyer may consider using witness testimony in a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit. For example, the attorney may find a medical expert who can testify on the plaintiff’s behalf and explain the potential impact of a hair relaxer product on this individual. The witness’ testimony can help a judge or jury see why a plaintiff should be awarded damages.
A Hair Relaxer Cancer Case Plaintiff Can Request Economic and Non-Economic Damages
In a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit, a plaintiff can be awarded multiple types of compensatory damages. There are times when a plaintiff receives economic or non-economic damages. In rare instances, a plaintiff gets punitive damages.
Economic and non-economic damages are commonly awarded in product liability lawsuits. A plaintiff receives economic damages as compensation for medical costs or other quantifiable losses. Comparatively, a plaintiff is awarded non-economic damages for pain, suffering, or other subjective losses.
It is legal in some states for a judge or jury to award punitive damages as well. Punitive damages are awarded in cases where a judge or jury wants to deter an at-fault party from future negligent acts. In these cases, a judge or jury awards punitive damages in conjunction with economic or non-economic damages or both.
How to Request Damages in a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit
When it comes to requesting damages, it helps to review the costs of a hair relaxer cancer treatment thus far. This shows an individual how much has been paid to cover their medical treatment. It can help this individual estimate how much their medical costs may be moving forward.
Along with looking at medical treatment costs, an individual should consider the emotional side effects of hair relaxer cancer. It can be emotionally taxing for a patient to undergo hair relaxer cancer treatment. The treatments can affect a patient’s mental health and make it difficult for this individual to enjoy life to the fullest extent.
A hair relaxer lawyer can help a plaintiff determine a suitable amount of damages to request from any at-fault parties. The attorney encourages the plaintiff to request the most damages possible. This allows a plaintiff to seek compensation that helps this individual now and in the future.
When a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit Gets Settled Outside the Courtroom
After a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit is filed, the litigation is unlikely to be resolved right away. A defendant and plaintiff can negotiate with one another during this time. If a defendant approaches a plaintiff with a settlement and both sides agree to it, the case can be resolved out of court.
The plaintiff in a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit may be tempted to approve a settlement proposal, even if it falls short of their expectations. Before a plaintiff decides on a settlement, this individual should consider the short- and long-term ramifications. If a plaintiff acts too fast, this individual risks making a poor decision that impacts their finances in the years to come.
A hair relaxer attorney can help a plaintiff weigh the pros and cons of a settlement proposal. The lawyer wants the plaintiff to make an informed decision about the offer. If a settlement offer does not meet a plaintiff’s expectations, this individual should not hesitate to decline it.
How to Decide on a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit Settlement
In a hair relaxer lawsuit, a plaintiff should not rush to make a decision on a settlement. The plaintiff should take as much time as needed to evaluate a settlement proposal. If the plaintiff has concerns or questions about the offer, this individual can reach out to their attorney.
A plaintiff should never accept a settlement due to pressure from a defendant. It is in a defendant’s best interest to resolve a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit and pay the plaintiff as little as possible in damages. Thus, the defendant may try to apply pressure in the hopes of getting a plaintiff to make a rash decision regarding a settlement.
If a plaintiff decides a settlement offer is unacceptable, this individual can continue to work with their lawyer to resolve their case. Settlement proposals can be submitted at any point leading up to a trial date. If a hair relaxer lawsuit goes to trial, the plaintiff’s attorney will do everything in their power to ensure this individual accomplishes the optimal case result.
What to Expect When a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit Goes to Trial
A hair relaxer cancer case trial can be stressful, but an attorney helps a plaintiff plan for it. The lawyer is accessible in the time leading up to a trial date. If the plaintiff has concerns or questions about the trial process, their attorney can respond to them.
In a trial, a plaintiff and defendant get the opportunity to present their respective case. For a plaintiff, this means their attorney will present evidence to support their client’s request for damages. The lawyer also disputes any claims from the defendant in the hopes of further illustrating why a judge or jury should rule in the plaintiff’s favor.
A judge or jury reviews evidence and witness testimony from both sides before it renders a decision. If a judge or jury finds a defendant was fully or partly responsible for a plaintiff’s hair relaxer cancer, it awards damages to the plaintiff. In this instance, the defendant is responsible for paying compensation based on the losses the plaintiff has incurred due to their negligence.
When to Hire a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer
A hair relaxer cancer attorney can make a big difference for those dealing with cancer caused by a hair relaxer product. The attorney is available to review a person’s legal claim and help this individual build their case. This lawyer works in conjunction with the plaintiff to ensure this individual does not have to navigate the legal process alone.
The legal process is filled with challenges, particularly in a hair relaxer cancer case. A plaintiff must show a judge or jury that a hair relaxer product contributed to their cancer symptoms. At the same time, the plaintiff must do so in alignment with the legal system.
An attorney with hair relaxer cancer case experience is capable of handling a plaintiff’s legal requests. The lawyer avoids shortcuts throughout the legal process. Rather, the attorney provides their undivided attention to the task at hand, doing everything in their power to resolve their client’s case.
How to Identify the Right Hair Relaxer Cancer Attorney
Find an attorney with hair relaxer cancer case experience. The lawyer is familiar with hair relaxer cancer cases across the United States and continues to stay informed about new litigation as it crops up. This attorney can educate their client about hair relaxer cancer lawsuits and what to expect as their litigation begins.
Seek out a lawyer with hair relaxer cancer case experience who instills confidence. The attorney should help an individual feel confident about their case. This lawyer relies on their legal skills to ensure the plaintiff is positioned for success.
It is helpful to meet with an attorney and discuss any legal concerns or questions before committing to this individual. An initial consultation represents a learning experience for the person meeting with the attorney and the lawyer. Each party can learn from one another and figure out if a legal partnership can be mutually beneficial.
Do Not Wait to File a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit
Hair relaxer cancer treatment costs can add up. If a person is not careful, these expenses can cause financial issues. They can force an individual to make significant financial cutbacks in the hopes of getting any medical treatments they need to manage their cancer symptoms.
A hair relaxer cancer lawsuit gives a person the ability to seek damages that can be used to pay for their medical bills and related expenses. The lawsuit allows an individual to request fair compensation for losses that were incurred. If the lawsuit is successful, a plaintiff can receive damages that benefit this individual for years.
To initiate a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit, partner with an attorney. This provides a person with access to a lawyer who has their client’s best interests in mind. The lawyer will do what it takes to help the plaintiff succeed in court.
Reach Out to a Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer
John Foy & Associates offers legal help with hair relaxer cancer lawsuits. We can put you in contact with a hair relaxer cancer lawyer today. To learn more or request a free consultation, please get in touch with us.