Latest Updates in Chemical Hair Straightener Cancer Lawsuits: What You Need to Know
This post follows our previous post in December 2022 where we explained the dangers of chemical hair straighteners and the potential cancer risk associated with these products. Please review the previous post for more information.
An MDL has been created
In this post, we will discuss the latest updates in the litigation. First, chemical hair straightener cancer lawsuits have been consolidated into a multi-district litigation panel, or MDL. The MDL is in the Northern District of Illinois, where Chicago is located. This consolidation means that all new chemical hair straightener cancer lawsuits can be filed in one place, the Northern District of Illinois, and the litigation will essentially be managed by one judge.
Deadlines have been set
Second, the Court has set important deadlines. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit have until June 15, 2023, to file the class complaint and their master complaint. 21 calendar days after the plaintiffs file the master non−class complaint, the parties will file simultaneous briefs addressing general causation. According to the order, “The Court will rule thereafter by mail or orally at a scheduled status hearing.”
Causation issues explained
We explained the causation issues in the litigation in detail in this youtube video, so please watch that.
Essentially, the theory of the chemical hair straightener cancer lawsuits is that endocrine-disrupting chemicals enter the body and generate a cancerous process by confusing the body. There are many endocrine receptive cells in female reproductive organs, which is why the major injuries include reproductive cancers, like uterine and endometrial cancer. The issue on causation is simply that proving someone got uterine cancer specifically from chemical hair straighteners, rather than genetic risk, or lifestyle, or some other cancer-causing product (for example, talcum powder), may be difficult. That is why the Court is asking the parties to address “general causation” early in the case.
What to do if you or a loved one has used chemical hair straighteners
Give us a call or contact us today. Our team of skilled products liability and medical device lawyers are currently accepting chemical hair straightener cancer lawsuits.
