North Carolina Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit

Are you one of the millions of women who have used hair relaxers to achieve a sleek and straight look?

Recently, a North Carolina hair relaxer cancer lawsuit has drawn attention to the potential health risks associated with these popular products. Schmidt & Clark, LLP, with a strong track record in handling such cases, offers complimentary consultations to assist you in addressing any concerns related to the use of chemical hair relaxers.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the lawsuit, the chemicals involved, and the potential health implications for users. We’ll also guide you through the process of seeking legal help and obtaining compensation if you’ve been affected.

North Carolina Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

A hair relaxer cancer lawsuit is currently taking place in North Carolina. This lawsuit alleges a connection between chemical hair relaxers and several types of cancer, specifically uterine, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. This is alarming for the numerous women who use hair relaxer products to maintain a sleek, straight hairstyle. If you suspect that long-term use of hair straighteners led to your exposure or if you have been diagnosed with uterine cancer, you could have grounds to sue the manufacturers of these products. Pursue legal advice for more guidance.

The evidence linking hair relaxers to cancer continues to develop, with the court approving a Short Form Complaint for future plaintiffs to submit their hair relaxer claim to the MDL. This streamlines the process for individuals looking to join the lawsuit. The best way to participate in the hair relaxer lawsuit is to contact attorneys specializing in this area.

As the court proceedings progress, staying updated about the potential health risks tied to hair relaxer use is vital. Knowledge of these product dangers will allow you to make informed choices regarding your health and legal rights.

What Is a Chemical Hair Relaxer?

A hair relaxer is a product designed to straighten curly or textured hair. The process involves breaking down the hair’s natural curl pattern and rebuilding it into a straighter form. However, the chemicals found in hair relaxers and hair-relaxing products, such as DEHP and formaldehyde, have been linked to cancer and other serious health problems.

Hair relaxers contain several chemicals, including:

• Sodium hydroxide
• Ammonium thioglycolate
• Guanidine carbonate
• Di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (“DEHP”) among others [1]

The National Cancer Institute has found a link between these chemicals and cancer. DEHP, in particular, is classified as a probable human carcinogen. Some of these chemicals are also considered endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which have been linked to breast cancer and other types of cancer [2].

Regrettably, many hair relaxer products fail to fully reveal the existence of dangerous chemicals such as phthalates on their labels. If you think you might have been harmed due to prolonged use of a hair relaxer, getting in touch with a hair relaxer lawyer in North Carolina for a complimentary consultation is advised.

Health Implications

Research has shown that the use of hair relaxer products can lead to an increased risk of uterine, ovarian, and endometrial cancers, especially among Black women and women of color. Women who use hair relaxer products are nearly twice as likely to develop uterine cancer as those who don’t, and those who use hair relaxers more than four times a year are nearly three times more likely to develop uterine cancer [3].

In addition to uterine cancer, ovarian and endometrial cancers have also been linked to hair relaxer use. Black women and Hispanic women are more likely to develop aggressive tumors, with Black women being particularly affected due to their higher usage of straightening products.

Given these significant health risks, it’s important to balance the potential negative health impacts against the benefits of using hair relaxers. If you or someone you know has been impacted by these health risks, it may be time to seek legal assistance.

What Companies and Products are Involved in the Hair Relaxer Lawsuits?

Several hair relaxer brands and manufacturers have been implicated in the North Carolina lawsuit. These companies include:

• Dark & Lovely
• Just for Me
• Optimum Care
• African Pride
• Soft & Beautiful

If you have used any of these brands and developed cancer associated with hair relaxer use, you could qualify for compensation by participating in the ongoing lawsuit. Investigating your case and contemplating legal action against the manufacturers of these hazardous products is an important step.

Getting in touch with seasoned hair relaxer attorneys will provide you with a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Stand up for your rights and fight for the justice you deserve.

What Does It Cost To Hire a North Carolina Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer?

The cost of hiring a North Carolina Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawyer can vary. Some law firms charge a contingency fee, usually around 35% of the total amount recovered. This means that the lawyer only gets paid if they win the case, so you won’t have to worry about upfront costs.

Other firms may offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis as well. It is a good idea to contact different law firms to inquire about their fees and payment arrangements. This way, you can find the best representation for your hair relaxer cancer lawsuit without breaking the bank.

Who Can File a Lawsuit for Hair Relaxer Products in North Carolina?

To be eligible for filing a hair relaxer cancer lawsuit in North Carolina, you must demonstrate that your cancer was caused by exposure to the problematic chemicals found in hair relaxers. Women who have used hair relaxer or straighteners for a long period can be eligible for compensation. If they have been diagnosed with uterine, ovarian, or endometrial cancer, then they could be the beneficiaries of the same.

If you meet these criteria and have been diagnosed with cancer-related to hair relaxer use, you can:

• File a lawsuit against the manufacturers of products that have used EDCs
• Seek compensation for the harm you have experienced
• Hold these companies accountable for their actions.

How Much Time Do I Have to File a Hair Relaxer Lawsuit in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the usual time limit to file a hair relaxer lawsuit is three years. However, it’s important to consult with a lawyer to ensure you file your lawsuit within the necessary timeframe as there might be exceptions to this rule.

Don’t miss your opportunity to seek justice and compensation for your suffering.

Settlements and Compensation

If you or a loved one has experienced uterine, endometrial, or ovarian cancer due to regular use of a dangerous hair relaxer, you and your family may be eligible for compensation. The amount of compensation and settlements can vary greatly depending on the strength of your claim and the damages incurred. Estimates range from $300,000 to $1,750,000.

Some relaxer manufacturers have already reached significant settlements, making it important to consult with a legal team to calculate potential compensation in your specific case. Seeking compensation can help ease the financial strain caused by medical bills, lost income, and other damages related to your cancer diagnosis.

Related Articles:

• New Mexico Hair Relaxer Lawsuit
• New York Hair Relaxer Litigation
• New Jersey Hair Relaxer Attorney

FAQs

How are hair relaxer cancer cases diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examinations, imaging tests (such as ultrasounds, MRIs, or CT scans), and biopsies. Your doctor will determine the best diagnostic approach based on your symptoms and medical history.

What legal steps should I take if I believe my cancer is linked to hair relaxers?

First, seek medical confirmation of your diagnosis and gather medical records. Then, contact a lawyer experienced in product liability cases to discuss your situation. Preserve any evidence related to the hair relaxer products you used, including packaging and purchase receipts.

Can I file a hair relaxer lawsuit if I used these products many years ago?

Yes, but the statute of limitations applies, which varies by state. It’s essential to consult with an attorney to determine if you can still file a claim based on when you were diagnosed and when you used the products.

See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys have covered so far.

Get in Touch With Our North Carolina Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit Attorneys

The North Carolina hair relaxer cancer lawsuit highlights the potential dangers of using hair relaxers and the serious health risks associated with these products. If you or someone you know has been affected by hair relaxer-related cancers, it is essential to understand your legal rights and seek compensation for the harm you have experienced.

If you believe you have a case, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced North Carolina hair relaxer cancer lawsuit attorneys at Schmidt & Clark, LLP.

Our team of knowledgeable attorneys is here to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

References

1. https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
2. https://misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/error/abuse.shtml
3. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/hair-straightening-chemicals-associated-higher-uterine-cancer-risk