There’s been a great deal of buildup and media attention regarding the mesothelioma lawsuit filed by 46-year-old Stephen Lanzo, III and his wife Kendra against Johnson & Johnson.
The case is attracting attention for several reasons, not the least of which is that the product that Lanzo claims was the cause of his terminal illness is one that has been trusted and used by consumers for decades.
Word of its danger has struck fear into millions of people. The case is also of particular interest in the state of New Jersey, as the trial is being heard in a courtroom in Middlesex County, under a mile from where the company’s headquarters are located.
The Lanzos are seeking compensation from the company for medical expenses related to his malignant mesothelioma, as well as other damages. Their claims are based on reports that Johnson and Johnson’s Baby Powder, which he used throughout his entire life, contained talc that was contaminated with asbestos.
Asbestos is a toxic set of minerals that is the single known cause of the deadly form of cancer, as well as other asbestos-related diseases including asbestosis and asbestos-related lung cancer.
In addition to causing mesothelioma, the widely-used product has been accused of causing ovarian cancer in women who used the product to promote genital dryness and freshness, as the company’s advertising suggested decades ago.
The issue goes beyond whether the product contained asbestos, but also to whether or not the company was aware of the presence of asbestos in the talc that they were using in the powder.
Internal documents to be presented as evidence suggests that company executives had asbestos concerns many years ago, but chose not to act on them. It is expected that the trial will last for several weeks, and will involve expert testimony from dozens of witnesses.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you have a lot of questions. The Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net are committed to making sure that you get all the answers you need.
Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608.
