Ovarian Cancer Hair Relaxer Lawsuit

People who may qualify to file a case have often used chemical hair relaxers for many years. They were later diagnosed with ovarian cancer after that period of use. Many of the cases focus on long-term exposure to the chemicals, but each case is reviewed based on its own facts.

Disclaimer: Winder Law Firm is gathering information from individuals with potential legal claims who have been diagnosed with certain health conditions. Inquiries may be shared with a partner law firm under a marketing arrangement.

This section is about basic medical details. It is not medical advice and is not an alternative to medical treatment.

About Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a cancer that affects the ovaries. It sometimes starts in the fallopian tubes before spreading to the ovary.

There are several types of ovarian cancer. The most common is epithelial cancer, where tumors form on the outer lining of the ovary.

When the tumor becomes malignant, it can spread to other parts of the body. Treatment for malignant cancer is more serious and complex.

This section cites from legal claims. It presents studies that report links and patterns, rather than proven medical causes. There’s no final decision from the courts regarding medical responsibility.

“Does hair relaxer cause ovarian cancer?” This is one of the most common questions people ask. Currently, there’s no proof that hair relaxers are a direct cause, but current research reveals there might be a link.

Studies Linking Hair Relaxer Use and Ovarian Cancer

A 2021 study from the journal Carcinogenesis noted higher rates of ovarian cancer among people who often used chemical hair relaxers. The study focused on long-term use, and the researchers tracked health outcomes over time. The authors concluded that more research is needed to confirm a strong link.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) also published findings on the topic via the Sister Study. Its findings show there are higher rates of hormone-related cancers among those who use hair relaxers regularly.

The NIH noted that these findings are concerning, but the direct cause isn’t proven yet. The results are part of ongoing research.

Consumer Reports also reported on links between hair relaxer and ovarian cancer. The study focused on women with ovarian cancer who used the products for many years. Consumer Reports states that research on the matter is ongoing and that companies dispute these claims.

Earlier research into hair relaxers and hormone-related cancers was featured in Allure Magazine. Allure reports that some ingredients may be harmful in certain conditions, but a medical or legal cause is not proven.

Disproportionate Impact on Black and Brown Women

Black women are more likely to use chemical hair relaxers, according to a New York University study. Many of the women were young girls when they began using hair relaxers.

Some claims say that ads and branding for these hair relaxers reinforce beliefs that straight hair is more acceptable in workplaces and schools. They point to alleged social pressure that promotes these beauty standards.

Some products are even targeting children and young women. These marketing tactics led to women using the products for a long period of time.

Surveys also revealed reported biases based on hair. A study found that some women of color reported receiving unfair treatment in school due to their hair.

Reported findings include:

• 66% of girls in White-majority schools reported unfair treatment due to their hair.
• 45% of girls of color reported receiving unfair treatment overall.
• Nearly half of Black mothers reported unfair treatment due to their hair.

These findings are often part of legal filings against long-term use of hair relaxers.

FDA Oversight of Hair Relaxer Products

Many people believe the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviews cosmetic products before they are sold in the market. But the FDA says this is not how it’s done.

There’s no requirement for cosmetic companies to send test results or information on their ingredients before selling. The FDA can only take action if a product is proven to be unsafe when used.

But there are federal laws that keep cosmetics safe and properly labeled. If a product manufacturer breaks these laws, the FDA may step in.

In 2022, Congress passed the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act. Through this law, the FDA gets expanded authority over cosmetic safety and reporting.

The FDA also said some hair relaxer products may release formaldehyde when used with heat. Formaldehyde is a chemical linked to several health risks.

Plaintiffs often point to these limits to prove that federal oversight does not fully cover the risks of long-term use of hair relaxers.

This section explains general steps on how to file an ovarian cancer hair relaxer lawsuit. This is not legal advice.

Claim Filing Process

Many of the claims follow the same steps:

• Step 1: Get in touch with a law firm that knows how to handle hair relaxer cancer claims.
• Step 2: Gather your medical records, including proof of product use.
• Step 3: If eligible, you can file and your claim may be placed in MDL No. 3060

It’s not a requirement to hire a lawyer, but some plaintiffs choose legal help so they can better understand court procedures and timelines.

What Evidence Is Needed

The common documents that serve as evidence include:

• Medical or hospital records showing your ovarian cancer diagnosis
• Proof you used hair relaxers for a long period of time, like receipts and salon notes

Other helpful documents include photos of the chemical hair relaxer you’ve used. Always keep copies of every document.

Do I Need an Attorney?

You can file your claim without a lawyer. But many people choose to have one because these cases involve medical records, scientific evidence, and the MDL process.

A lawyer will be able to clearly explain what to expect and how to prepare. The lawyer can review whether your claim meets the requirements for it to move forward.

Settlement Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique, and compensation depends on individual circumstances.

There is no set settlement amount for cases alleging hair relaxers cause ovarian cancer. These lawsuits are still ongoing.

Possible factors that may affect results include:

• Type and stage of ovarian cancer
• Type of care, including surgery or drug treatment
• Medical costs, including future care needs
• Time missed from work or income lost
• Strength of records linking product use to diagnosis

Each case’s outcome depends on its own facts.

Note: Fill out the form or call to see if legal options may be available. Inquiries will be shared with a partner law firm under a marketing arrangement to assist with the next steps.

Did you or a loved one get an ovarian cancer diagnosis after years of using chemical hair relaxers? You may explore your legal options through a free case review. Schedule a free consultation for a hair relaxer lawsuit at your convenience.