The Bell Law Firm, PLLC

The panel of scientists investigating the toxic chemical C8 for the past six years reports that C8 does not cause any type of birth defect. The study is part of a class action lawsuit filed by members of a West Virginia community. The plaintiffs claim the toxic chemical contaminated the water supply in the area. If the researchers find a probable link between the chemical and human disease, the company could be liable for as much as $235 million in damages.

The panel did find another issue with the chemical. Research shows that pregnant mothers exposed to C8 have pregnancy-induced hypertension, a condition that can put the mother and the child at risk during birth.

Hypertension can become pre-eclampsia when protein leaks into the urine, and pre-eclampsia is a much more serious problem. The condition is also said to cause problems with any later pregnancies even though pregnancy-induced hypertension generally doesn't last longer than the pregnancy.

The lawyers handling the case have gladly accepted the help of the researchers and said they will arrange for the new findings to be put into the case. One of the lawyers on the case has stated that if the court finds the exposure to C8 to have caused human disease more likely than not, the judgment shall be made.

The manufacturer has agreed to lower emissions of the chemical and will eventually phase it out completely. C8 is one of the chemicals used in non-stick coatings for cookware and bakeware; it is also used in water-resistant clothing and stain-resistant carpeting.

Researchers are still concerned for the list of health effects the chemical could have while the chemical is used in everyday products. The researchers are also concerned about the waste disposal practices for C8 -- the problem that triggered the class action suit.

Source: Charleston Gazette, "Panel links C8 to high blood pressure in pregnancy," Ken Ward Jr., Dec. 5, 2011