In recent years, there has been rising controversy over the discovery of asbestos in talc. You may be wondering whether you should avoid talcum powder or if you should assume you are at risk for an asbestos-related disease if you’ve been exposed to products containing talc. What is the truth about asbestos found in talc?
Facts About Asbestos Found in Talc Products
One fact that is not debated among experts is that many talc mines also contain asbestos. Geologically, asbestos and talc can form next to each other naturally. However, not every talc deposit is contaminated with asbestos. Whether talc products contain asbestos depends largely on where the talc is mined.
Is Asbestos Found in Talc?
Some talc is found to be contaminated with a form of asbestos known as tremolite. Tremolite is related to the one of the most carcinogenic varieties of asbestos, the amphibole group. Both tremolite and talc are created by the same geological processes, so it is not surprising that they are often formed next to each other underground.
Asbestos and Talc Products
The connection between asbestos and talc went undetected for years, resulting in the manufacture and distribution to the public of many products containing asbestos fibers.
Industrial talc has been used in the manufacture of a variety of products such as clay, chalk, ink, crayons, paper, pottery, and sinks. The existence of asbestos in talc is acknowledged and rarely a problem in industrial applications. Nevertheless, factory workers who have been exposed to industrial talc during the manufacturing process are among those at risk of asbestos-related diseases.
The discovery of asbestos in talcum powder and other personal hygiene products is one of latest asbestos controversies in the news. Companies have been promoting talcum powder for cosmetic uses since the late 1800s. Because of its ability to alleviate skin irritations such as chafing and diaper rash, talc has been a staple product found in almost every American household for many years. The dangers of asbestos found in talc wasn’t discovered until the late 1970s, which means that the number of consumers that have been exposed to talc is unknown and nearly impossible to determine.
Due to increased consumer awareness of asbestos exposure through talcum powder and cosmetics, many manufacturers, including Johnson & Johnson, have been named in lawsuits throughout the country. Because of the latency period associated with asbestos-related diseases, many people who used the contaminated products before 1970 may just now be developing symptoms.
Where to Turn if You’ve Been Exposed to Asbestos in Talc
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related condition due to exposure while working in talc mines, working in industrial factories, or by simply being a consumer of talc products, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact the asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys at Nemeroff Law Firm today. They’ve been successfully representing clients in asbestos-related matters for years and will put their expertise to work for you. Call 1.214.774.2258 or complete the online form for your free case evaluation.