In the past year, several lawsuits have been filed against hair straightener manufacturers alleging that their products are responsible for causing cancer. This is a relatively new development in Central and Southwest Virgina, as until now, the link between chemical hair straighteners and cancer has been largely theoretical. However, the growing body of evidence suggests that this may indeed be the case.
Cause of cancers
What is causing these cancers? It’s not currently clear, but there are many potential culprits, including hair straightener chemicals and other device-related toxins. If you’re concerned about your health and the health of those around you, it may be time to take a closer look at your hair straightener use.
Studies on relaxing products
An NIH study shows that chemical hair relaxing products can raise the risk of uterine cancer. A study by Oxford University has shown that lye-based relaxers can increase the risk of breast cancer by 30 percent in African American women. Another NIH study shows that African American women are also at greater risk for uterine fibroids from using chemical hair relaxers.
What are the factors
To determine eligibility for product liability action there are several factors that would need to be met:
- Have you used chemicals to straighten your hair?
- Have you used chemical relaxers for several years?
- Did you use these chemicals at home, or did you have a professional apply them?
- Have you been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, breast cancer or uterine cancer?
- Do you have a family history of cancer?
Not each of these must be met to act. If you or a loved one use these products, it may be a good idea to discuss their use with your doctor.