Research seems to indicate that a man can get testicular cancer from talcum powder that contains asbestos. Testicular mesothelioma is a type of testicular cancer that researchers concluded develops from exposure to asbestos, which is a well-known risk factor, according to the National Toxicology Program (NTP).
Because talcum powders contain the mineral talc, they may also contain the mineral asbestos, which is the carcinogen linked to the increased risk and development of testicular cancer. This can lead to the development of talcum powder cancer in men.
What Is Talcum Powder Used For?
Using talcum powder for testicles is a common practice because the powder cuts down on friction and absorbs moisture. Because it keeps the skin dry, it helps prevent rashes. Although today most powder is made from cornstarch or other harmless substances, there was a time when it was commonly manufactured using talc, which is potentially deadly.
Understanding Testicular Cancer
Unlike mesothelioma, ovarian, and peritoneal cancers, which many researchers conclude develops through exposure to asbestos, not much research has occurred with respect to testicular mesothelioma.
Typically, testicular cancer occurs through the development of a primary tumor on the tunica vaginalis, which is the pouch of the serous membrane that covers a man’s testes. Testicular cancer appears as white-yellow and firm nodules on the surface of the tunica vaginalis, and it can ultimately cause the membrane to thicken over time.
Testicular mesothelioma is an aggressive type of cancer for men, and it has the ability to metastasize (spread) quickly throughout a man’s body. Even if a victim has tumors removed, many men have a recurrence of tumors within a few years.
Despite this, the prognosis and survival rate associated with testicular mesothelioma is much better than those diagnosed with mesothelioma in the lungs or the ovarian cancer survival rate.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 794-0444
Does Talcum Powder Contain Asbestos?
Talc is a soft mineral found in the ground directly near the mineral asbestos. As they are both minerals present in the soil, researchers discovered that a substantial amount of talc actually also contains the mineral asbestos. Alone, talc is not a dangerous mineral.
When talc contains asbestos, the result can be a higher risk of the development of different types of cancers for those persons who receive consistent or extended exposure to this mineral.
Research concludes that mesothelioma found in the lungs often contains asbestos particles. Additionally, asbestos can easily absorb throughout the body, resulting in either ovarian or peritoneal cancer.
Scientific studies continue to prove the connection between asbestos and different types of cancer, such as the research published in the European Journal of Cancer Prevention that concluded asbestos existed in the tissue samples of ovarian cancer patients.
Can Baby Powder Cause Testicular Cancer?
Yes, it can. Unfortunately, research has shown that talc powder and testicular cancer are linked. Because many men use products such as Gold Bond Medicated Powder to relieve itching, prevent chafing, and absorb moisture on their testicles, they may have an increased risk of developing talcum powder cancer in males as a result.
This is what happened to one man who won $117m in a Johnson’s baby powder lawsuit. The man, 46-year-old Stephen Lanzo, developed testicular cancer as a result of the regular use of talcum powder. Johnson & Johnson was forced to pay $37 million, then they were ordered to pay an additional $80 million.
Click to contact our lawyers today
Should I Put Powder on My Balls?
Putting talcum powder on balls is not a good idea unless you are absolutely certain that the powder you are using does not contain talc. You’d be surprised how many people still have talcum powder around their homes that was manufactured before Johnson & Johnson stopped producing it for the US. Before you use powder on your testicles or anywhere else, check the label to make sure it does not contain talc.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
How a Lawyer Can Help if You Develop Testicular Cancer
If you developed testicular cancer or testicular mesothelioma, you may wonder if you developed testicular cancer from talcum powder containing asbestos. If you have a history of exposure to talcum-containing products, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. You should speak to a personal injury lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma cases to learn more about filing a claim.
Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
If you had large amounts of exposure to talcum powders from manufacturers such as Johnson & Johnson or Gold Bond Medicated Powders containing talc, you may wonder whether or not you can get testicular cancer from talcum powder that occurs in those products.
The following are some symptoms of testicular cancer to visit with your doctor about if you feel concerned about your risk of developing testicular cancer:
- Symptoms similar to a hernia
- Swelling of the scrotum
- A painless scrotal mass
While these symptoms may indicate testicular cancer, in many cases, men that develop testicular cancer have no signs or symptoms. The only absolute way to determine whether or not a person has testicular cancer is to perform a biopsy.
Testicular Cancer Treatments
Surgery is the most common type of treatment for testicular mesothelioma. Most 100% of all men that develop testicular cancer will have surgery to remove the tumor, as well as the affected testicle and entire spermatic cord. If testicular cancer has metastasized throughout the body, or to lymph nodes, the surgeon may also remove those affected lymph nodes or other tumors.
In some cases, a patient will receive chemotherapy following the surgery or radiation therapy depending on the facts and circumstances of that individual. The timing and quality of the treatments you receive after a testicular mesothelioma diagnosis are critical, as this will determine how much time you’ve got left.
Treatment for mesothelioma can be incredibly costly, and you may be left with other expenses such as caretakers. If you developed testicular cancer after using talc powder, mesothelioma lawyers Pintas & Mullins may be able to help you cover the cost of treatment.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
