Johnson & Johnson recalled 33,000 bottles of baby powder after the FDA found asbestos in one of the bottles. The recall only applies to a single lot of baby powder made by the consumer products giant. However, it comes at a particularly bad time for the company, which is facing thousands of lawsuits over its talcum powder. Anyone who has purchased Johnson’s Baby Powder from lot #22318RB should not use it. They should instead contact the company to ask for a refund. If you have been injured by a Johnson & Johnson product, contact a product liability attorney right away.
The recall is historic. It is the first time Johnson & Johnson has had to recall its baby powder because of worries over asbestos. The FDA said in a statement that it is committed to keeping consumers safe by issuing the recall. The agency also said it will continue testing products made with talc, such as baby powder, to look for asbestos.
By some estimates, the company is facing approximately 15,000 lawsuits over its baby powder product. Lawsuits have alleged that the powder is responsible for numerous cases of cancer. More particularly, they claim that asbestos in the powder caused them to develop mesothelioma.
What Are Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer often found in the lungs. Among other causes, asbestos is considered to be a leading one. Symptoms can take years to be noticed, and they include:
- Chest pains
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Painful coughing
- Unusual or unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Nausea
Despite the FDA’s finding and the recall, Johnson & Johnson is sticking by its baby powder products. In a statement, the company said it employs rigorous testing and that its talc products are safely sourced. Johnson & Johnson also pointed out that the amount found was very small. The company is investigating to determine how the asbestos made its way into the baby powder.
The discovery will likely fuel growing speculation that Johnson & Johnson is risking consumer safety. The company has been blamed for other public health ills as well. These include its role in the ongoing opioid crisis and its marketing of defective health products. It is expected that the asbestos recall will encourage other litigants to step forward.
What Damages Can I Pursue for Mesothelioma Caused by Baby Powder?
Lawsuits maintain that the company has known about the risks of its talc products for years but has done nothing. They accuse Johnson & Johnson of knowingly and deceptively marketing and selling an unsafe product. Their product remains for sale, notwithstanding the recall.
If you or a loved one developed mesothelioma after exposure to baby powder, you may have a claim. First, obtain whatever medical treatment you need and be sure to follow your doctor’s orders. You will need records from your doctor later to demonstrate any health problems associated with your use of baby powder. Then, reach out to our experienced legal team. We will investigate your claim and let you know about your legal options. You could be eligible for numerous damages, depending on your injuries. They may include:
- Medical bills for treatment of past, present, and future conditions
- Related medical costs and expenses
- Prescription drug medications
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost wages due to time missed for treatments or hospitalization
- Decreased earning capacity
- Wrongful death in the event the victim dies
Contact an Attorney About the Baby Powder Asbestos Recall
Taking on a corporate giant like Johnson & Johnson is no easy task. It requires expert witness testimony, extensive discovery procedures, and familiarity with product defect law. You need the experience, knowledge, and dedication of Schneider Hammers. We have the resources it takes to fight corporations who ignore public safety. Give our Atlanta personal injury lawyers a call today to discuss your case.
