Whether it’s a product you’ve used for years or something that once seemed routine—like a hair product or medical device—certain everyday items have come under legal scrutiny for causing harm. If you’re someone who likes to dig deep before making health decisions (or even just wants to protect your household from long-term risks), this guide is for you.
Let’s break down six of the most active mass torts and class actions happening right now, what they mean for you, and how to check your eligibility.
1. Talcum Powder – Johnson & Johnson
The Issue: Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder, long marketed as safe, has been linked to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma due to alleged asbestos contamination.
History: Lawsuits date back to the early 2010s. J&J has paid billions in settlements and verdicts. In 2023, the company proposed an $8.9 billion bankruptcy settlement to resolve tens of thousands of cases.
Recent Updates: Legal battles continue over whether the bankruptcy maneuver (called a “Texas Two-Step”) is fair to victims.
Eligibility:
- You used J&J talcum powder regularly (especially in the genital area).
- You were diagnosed with ovarian cancer or mesothelioma.
- Family members of deceased victims may also be eligible.
How to Check: Most law firms offer free evaluations. Look for ones handling multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2738).
Join or Learn More:
Robert King Law Firm – Talcum Powder Lawsuit King Law
2. C.R. Bard Hernia Mesh
The Issue: Bard’s mesh products allegedly caused serious complications—chronic pain, infections, organ perforation, and revision surgeries.
History: Thousands of lawsuits were consolidated into an MDL in Ohio. Plaintiffs argue the mesh was defectively designed and inadequately tested.
Recent Updates: A few bellwether trials have taken place; some verdicts were in favor of the plaintiffs, strengthening the MDL cases.
Eligibility:
- You received a Bard hernia mesh implant (like Kugel, Ventralex, or PerFix).
- You experienced complications, including revision surgery.
How to Check: Medical records and surgical history are key. Some legal teams will help you retrieve them at no cost.
Join or Learn More:
Lawsuit Information Center – Bard Hernia Mesh Lawsuits
Miller & Zois – Hernia Mesh Lawsuit Updates
3. Hair Relaxer Products (L’Oréal and others)
The Issue: A groundbreaking 2022 NIH study found a link between chemical hair straighteners and increased risk of uterine and breast cancer.
History: Lawsuits rapidly grew into a mass tort (MDL 3060) centralized in Illinois. Defendants include L’Oréal, Dark & Lovely, Just for Me, and others.
Recent Updates: The MDL is actively developing with discovery ongoing and new plaintiffs joining regularly.
Eligibility:
- You used chemical hair relaxers (often over several years).
- You developed uterine, ovarian, or breast cancer.
- African-American women are disproportionately affected.
How to Check: Be ready to share product names, years of use, and medical diagnosis.
Join or Learn More:
TruLaw – Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Guide
Miller & Zois – Hair Relaxer Lawsuit Updates
4. Social Media Addiction (Meta, TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat)
The Issue: Lawsuits claim platforms intentionally designed addictive features that harm young users’ mental health.
History: Hundreds of school districts and individuals filed suits; these were consolidated into an MDL in California.
Recent Updates: Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and others face allegations of failing to protect minors and encouraging harmful content.
Eligibility:
- You or your child used these platforms extensively.
- Resulting harm includes anxiety, depression, self-harm, or suicidal ideation.
- Diagnosis from a mental health professional may help validate your case.
How to Check: Parents can file on behalf of minors. Documenting time spent and medical treatment strengthens claims.
Join or Learn More:
Goldwater Law Firm – Social Media Addiction Lawsuit
Lawsuit Information Center – Social Media Addiction Lawsuits
5. Roundup – Bayer/Monsanto
The Issue: Glyphosate, the herbicide in Roundup, is alleged to cause non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
History: Bayer (which acquired Monsanto) has faced over 100,000 claims. Some verdicts awarded plaintiffs hundreds of millions.
Recent Updates: Bayer settled many claims but is still fighting others in court. The company insists glyphosate is safe.
Eligibility:
- Regular Roundup use (especially occupational or large-scale use).
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis.
- Timeline from exposure to diagnosis is important.
How to Check: Lawn care professionals, farmers, and home gardeners may all qualify—consult firms involved in MDL 2741.
Rueb Stoller Daniel – How to Join the Roundup LawsuitRueb Stoller Daniel
6. Paragard IUD
The Issue: The copper IUD can allegedly break during removal, causing internal injuries and requiring surgery.
History: Plaintiffs argue the device is defective and that women weren’t adequately warned. Cases were consolidated in Georgia.
Recent Updates: The MDL is progressing steadily with growing participation. No settlements announced yet.
Eligibility:
- You had a Paragard IUD implanted.
- You experienced breakage, injury, or required surgery during removal.
How to Check: Medical records from OB-GYN visits will be needed to validate injury claims.
Join or Learn More:
Top Class Actions – Paragard IUD Lawsuit Investigation
Miller & Zois – Paragard IUD Lawsuit UpdatesTop Class ActionsMaryland Personal Injury Lawyers
Should You File?
Many people hesitate to join mass torts because it feels overwhelming. But just like reading the label on your toddler’s sunscreen or researching what’s in your pantry, it’s about advocating for your health and peace of mind.
Most firms offer free consultations, and you only pay if they win. These claims are usually handled on a contingency basis—so there’s no upfront cost.
Tip: Create a folder (digital or physical) with:
- Product names and usage history
- Medical diagnoses and dates
- Any receipts, packaging, or photos (especially for devices or medications)