Unfortunately, construction workers are not the only ones in danger of asbestos exposure. New Mexico residents who use talcum powder or baby powder on themselves or their families could be experiencing dangerous levels of asbestos exposure capable of causing serious injury. Talcum powder is a common ingredient found in baby powders and cosmetics too.
Scientists recently became concerned that some talc mines are contaminated with asbestos. Talc, used to make talcum powder, is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined from the earth. Asbestos is also a naturally occurring mineral. The problem is that asbestos causes lung disease and cancer, and sometimes, it is found naturally in talc — depending on where the talc is mined.
The scientists were worried that talcum powders, cosmetics, and baby powders containing talc from asbestos-contaminated mines could contribute to asbestos-related diseases. In their research, the scientists discovered that their worries were well-founded. Those applying asbestos-contaminated baby powder or talcum powder to their bodies inside closed spaces — like bathrooms — experience high levels of toxic asbestos exposure. The scientists even linked one woman’s death from lung cancer to her repeated use of the same brand of talcum powder.
It is frightening to know that many baby powders could be contaminated with asbestos, and there is no way for New Mexico consumers to know which one's absent scientific testing. If you suspect that you, your child, or your loved one has suffered serious injury or death as a result of asbestos-contaminated talcum or baby powder, you have the right to investigate the possibility of pursuing financial restitution through a personal injury and/or wrongful death claim. If successfully navigated, individuals might be able to obtain valuable compensation for medical care and other damages by the successful presentation of such a claim.
Source: foreffectivegov.org, “Perilous Powder: Asbestos in Cosmetics Causes Lung Cancer“, Amanda Frank, Nov. 6, 2014
