PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island (WLNE) — Frequent use of chemical hair straighteners is associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer, according to a recent National Institutes of Health (NIHS) study.
The NIHS led a study that followed approximately 34,000 women between the ages of 35 and 74 for 11 years.
According to an October 2022 report, 60% of participants who used braces in the previous year identified as black women.
Studies have shown that exposure to chemicals found in hair restorers significantly increases the risk of developing uterine fibroids, early puberty, low birth rates, early menopause, and cancer.
Harmful chemicals commonly found in these products include:
- Lye
- guanidine hydroxide
- Sodium hydroxide
- formaldehyde
- petroleum fraction
The report further states that black women may be disproportionately affected due to the high frequency of hair relaxer use.
Rhode Island Attorney Peter Gemma said while previous studies have shown health hazards associated with chemical hair products, this is the first study linked to uterine cancer.
Gemma’s firm specializes in product liability litigation and will represent a woman who developed cancer from the use of hair growth products.
Gemma further said:The findings of this report have caused concern among many [women] Other people of color who often use hair relaxers to style their hair.
Below is a list of companies that may be included in the upcoming litigation.
- motion
- Dark & Lovely
- soft & beautiful
- optimal care
- Claim of Nature
- just for me
- olive oil relaxer
- organic root stimulant
- Brazilian blowout.
For more information on Hair Relaxer lawsuits and eligibility, please visit the Gemma Law Associates web page.
