In the fall of 2022, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute released an article linking chemical hair straightener use to an increased risk of developing uterine cancer. This study’s findings are the first piece of evidence suggesting an association between chemical hair straighteners and uterine cancer. Some of those affected have filed hair straightener uterine cancer lawsuits as a result.
Pending Hair Straightener Uterine Cancer Lawsuits
Since the release of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute study, several women throughout the U.S. have stepped forward to file lawsuits. In October 2022, a Missouri woman filed a lawsuit against L’Oréal, the French beauty company. NBC News reports that lawsuits are pending with other hair straightener companies, as well.
How do I File a Hair Straightener Uterine Cancer Lawsuit?
In most states, residents reserve the right to file a lawsuit without hiring a lawyer. Doing so is known as filing a lawsuit “pro se” or on one’s own behalf. Keep in mind that proceeding “pro se” is risky. Courtroom employees are not allowed to give you legal advice, and failure to adhere to civil court proceedings can result in your case being terminated.
A personal injury lawyer will guide you through these and other pitfalls. These are the services an attorney will provide you with:
- Answer any questions you have about your case
- Determine if you are eligible to file
- Collect evidence to support your claims
- Estimate the value of your case
- Explain your next steps and provide guidance
- Negotiate for an appropriate settlement offer
- Represent you in court proceedings
- Gather expert testimony to support your right to compensation
To hire a lawyer for your hair straightener uterine cancer lawsuit, seek firms with established case results. Then, request an initial case evaluation with a legal team you’d like to work with. During this meeting, you will discuss your lawsuit eligibility and decide if the chosen firm would be a good fit.
What Damages Are Available in a Lawsuit?
In a successful lawsuit, plaintiffs receive compensation in the form of damages. Damages are different types of personal and financial losses, including the following:
- Diminished quality of life
- Wrongful death
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damages
The type and amount of damages you qualify for will depend on the context of your lawsuit. Factors that influence the amount of damages a plaintiff receives include:
- The strength of your argument: In a hair straightener uterine cancer lawsuit, your attorney must prove that your cancer is linked to hair straightener use.
- The legal team you choose: Not every law firm has the experience, resources, and knowledge required to support your case.
- The severity of your medical condition: Generally, more severe injuries and medical conditions warrant larger settlements in personal injury lawsuits.
To estimate the value of your case, a personal injury law firm will review relevant evidence, including medical records, expert testimony, and other pieces of information.
For a free legal consultation, call 516-932-0400
How do Hair Straighteners Cause Uterine Cancer?
Current research hasn’t yet determined which ingredients in hair straighteners cause uterine cancer. However, the 2022 study posits that the following ingredients could be responsible:
- Parabens
- Formaldehyde
- Metals
- Bisphenol A (BPA)
- Phthalates
Both BPA and formaldehyde are already linked to various forms of cancer, making them known carcinogens. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), these chemicals could enter the body through the scalp during hair straightener use, increasing the risk of various cancers by disrupting the endocrine system.
Who Is at Risk?
NBC News reports that hair straighteners are used predominantly by women in the Black community. Federal government data also suggests that uterine cancer rates are increasing among Black women.
However, anyone with long-term chemical hair straightener use is at risk. The study determined that using hair straighteners more than four times a year increases the risk of uterine cancer twofold.
What Hair Straightening Products Should I Avoid?
The pending hair straightener uterine cancer lawsuits involve chemical straighteners, not irons. No current research suggests that the use of a straightening iron increases the risk of uterine cancer.
To reduce your risk of suffering from uterine cancer or another medical condition, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics suggests avoiding beauty products that contain:
- Phthalates
- Preservatives
- Lead and other heavy metals
- Mica
- Acrylates
- Benzophenone
- Homosalate
I Used Hair Straighteners. Will I Get Uterine Cancer?
The use of hair straighteners, even for an extended period, doesn’t guarantee that you’ll develop uterine cancer. Uterine cancer is a rare condition, even for those with a history of hair straightener use. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms of uterine cancer, you should schedule an appointment with your medical provider. The sooner you receive a diagnosis, the better.
According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the symptoms of uterine cancer include the following:
- Pelvic region pain
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Abnormal pap smear test results
Contact a Hair Straightener Uterine Cancer Lawsuit Lawyer Today
At Friedman & Simon, L.L.P., we are currently accepting inquiries from those impacted by chemical hair straighteners. Our firm has been fighting for those injured by the wrongful conduct of another since 1991. During this time, we’ve secured millions of dollars in compensation for our clients.
We’re proud to provide personalized legal representation to those in need – to us, you’re far more than just a case number. We are compassionate with our clients and relentless with our adversaries. Contact our offices to schedule an initial consultation today.
Call or text 516-932-0400 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form