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Asbestos is extremely dangerous, and yet it can be found lurking in any number of products and places in South Carolina. Even products that are not supposed to contain any asbestos at all can be contaminated with the toxic substance, like talc-based products such as baby powder. A recently published study affirmed the link between asbestos exposure through contaminated talcum powder contaminated and the deadly cancer mesothelioma.

The Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine published the case studies that looked at 33 patients suffering from mesothelioma, most of whom were women. Researchers confirmed that these patients’ primary source of exposure came from using talcum powder, commonly referred to as baby powder. At least six of the patients participated in tissue testing. The results showed that they all had asbestos fibers like the ones found in cosmetic talc in their body tissue, and not like the fibers associated with insulation or building supplies.

The cosmetic industry is not very well regulated. Because of this, asbestos continues to show up in products where it should not be, such as facial talc-based facial makeup. Companies also have the ability to test their own products to ensure that no asbestos is present. This does not always mean that a company will make other moves to protect consumers if it finds asbestos in its products. Johnson & Johnson knew that its baby powder product was contaminated with asbestos decades before that information came to light.

Having a study that affirms the link between asbestos-contaminated talc products and mesothelioma may make it easier for victims who choose to pursue compensation. Still, it can be difficult for asbestos exposure victims in South Carolina to demonstrate when or where the exposures took place, especially since they may have been years or even decades in the past. Those who are worried about this part of the process may prefer to speak with an experienced attorney before starting the process for compensation.