Chemicals Found in Hair Straightening Products May Be Linked to an Increased Risk of Uterine Cancer, According to a New Study
According to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, an increased risk of uterine cancer has been found among those who use hair relaxers (hair straightening products) due to the dangerous chemicals found in those products.
Uterine cancer is more common in women who frequently use chemical hair relaxers, with these women being over twice as likely to develop the cancer by age 70.
A person who regularly uses chemical straighteners or relaxers at least four times annually is classified as a frequent user in the study. Black women are at a much higher risk of developing endometrial cancer, the most common form of uterine cancer, potentially due to a greater use of straightening products.
These products style curly or wavy hair by breaking down the hair’s structure. In order to maintain the effect, they are often used multiple times. Studies have now found that this puts many users at risk for uterine cancer, breast cancer, and other health conditions.
Lawsuits claim that chemical hair relaxers may cause cancer
Hazardous effects can occur when using hair products that don’t adhere to the safety standards expected of cosmetics. All consumers have a right to expect that the hair products they use are safe and will not cause any health risks. However, some chemicals used in these products could cause cancer. These carcinogens then cause injuries that may entitle the victim to a claim for damages against the manufacturer, distributor or retailer of the product.
Are Hair Relaxers Linked to Cancer?
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute on October 17th investigated whether there is a connection between hair straightening and relaxing products with developing cancer. There have been many controversies over the years surrounding hair products and their harmful chemicals.
This study is one in a series of studies that are taking a look at the possible connections between hair straighteners, hair dyes, and breast & ovarian cancers.
Most recent studies have been scrutinized by the public, but this study in particular- led by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (Cancer Epidemiology Group) studied more than 34,000 women in the United States ages 35 to 74.
The participants completed a questionnaire asking about their use of hair care products. Specifically, it focused on straighteners, permanents, dye, relaxers, body waves as well as pressing products.
The results of the studies have alerted women to the serious risks of harm and potentially deadly outcome of the use of these products.
Contact Alonso Krangle for a No-Risk Confidential Consultation
Alonso Krangle LLP is a law firm that has received national recognition and awards for successfully helping many clients with product liability lawsuits. These cases have involved dangerous products, defective consumer goods, prescription and over-the-counter medications and more.
If you have uterine cancer, breast cancer, non-hodgkin lymphoma, or other cancer after the long-term use of hair relaxers, contact our product liability lawyers today to discuss whether you have a claim and should consider legal action to protect your rights.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 403-6191