Previous studies have suggested the chemicals in hair relaxers and straighteners could cause breast or ovarian cancer. But no one considered the risk of uterine cancer. These products are almost exclusively used by women of color, especially Black women. Not coincidentally, the National Cancer Institute reports that Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with uterine cancer and die from the disease than women of other races.
But a new "Sister Study," conducted by the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, which followed 51,000 women over five years, revealed a higher incidence of uterine cancer among women who used hair relaxers than those who had not. The greater and more recent their usage, the more likely they were to be diagnosed with the disease.
If you have used hair relaxers or straighteners and developed uterine cancer or other conditions, discuss your case with a hair relaxer lawyer from our firm. Having an attorney can greatly improve your chances of holding the manufacturers of these products accountable and recovering fair compensation for your losses.
Currently, more than 140 hair relaxer cancer lawsuits are pending in a multidistrict litigation against L’Oreal and other manufacturers of hair relaxer products.
Who Can Seek Compensation through a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit?
Women may qualify if they have used hair relaxers or hair straighteners regularly—either at home or at a salon—and been diagnosed with one of the following conditions:
- Uterine cancer
- Uterine fibroids
- Ovarian cancer
- Endometriosis
- Endometrial cancer
You must also show that you have suffered damages as a result of your illness, such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
What Damages are Available in a Hair Relaxer Claim?
The damages available in a hair relaxer claim will depend on your jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the applicable laws in the jurisdiction where the claim is filed. Generally, the following types of damages may be sought in a hair relaxer claim:
- Medical expenses: This includes reimbursement for past and future medical bills related to the diagnosis and treatment of uterine cancer or any other health issues caused by the hair relaxer.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional pain, suffering, and distress caused by the illness and its impact on your life.
- Lost income: If the illness resulted in missed work, reduced work capacity, or the inability to work, you may seek damages for lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
- Loss of consortium: If the illness has significantly affected your relationship with your spouse or family members, they might be able to claim damages for the loss of companionship and support.
How Can a Hair Relaxer Attorney Help with My Claim?
If you believe that your use of hair relaxers contributed to your diagnosis of uterine cancer, you might consider speaking with a lawyer to explore potential legal options. Here's how a lawyer could assist you:
Case evaluation
A lawyer with experience in product liability or personal injury cases can evaluate the details of your situation to determine if there is a potential legal claim. They will examine the evidence, medical records, and any relevant scientific studies linking hair relaxers to your diagnosis.
Gathering evidence
If your lawyer believes you have a viable case, they will work to gather additional evidence to strengthen your claim. This might involve obtaining expert medical opinions, product testing data, or historical records of the hair relaxer product in question.
Establishing causation
Proving a connection between your use of hair relaxers and the development of uterine cancer is critical. Your hair straightener lawyer will need to demonstrate that the hair relaxer product was a substantial factor in causing your illness and that the manufacturer failed to provide adequate warnings about its potential risks.
Identifying responsible parties
Your lawyer will determine who might be liable for your injuries. This could include the manufacturer of the hair relaxer, distributors, or even retailers if they were aware of any risks associated with the product.
Negotiation and settlement
In many cases, a lawyer will attempt to negotiate a settlement with the responsible parties on your behalf. This could involve compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages related to your diagnosis.
Litigation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may advise you to pursue a lawsuit. They will represent you in court and present your case to a judge and jury.
Contact an Experienced Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer for your Hair Relaxer Claim
More than 140 lawsuits have been filed against L’Oreal and other manufacturers of hair relaxers and hair straighteners by women who have developed uterine cancer and other health conditions from regular use of the products. If you have been sickened by the chemicals in hair relaxers, you may be eligible for compensation.
Our hair relaxer attorneys have years of experience helping those harmed by dangerous products recover compensation for their losses. Contact us today at 866-467-0943 or complete our online contact form for a free consultation.