A growing number of class actions claim that flavored vaping liquids for e-cigarettes contain toxic chemicals linked to Popcorn Lung, a chronic lung disease.
Need a Texas Popcorn Lung Lawyer? Collen A. Clark is a true advocate for his clients and is passionate about helping Texans that have been injured or wronged. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with “Popcorn Lung,” you should contact our lawyers immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit in Texas.
Overview
In the early 2000s, several workers at a Missouri microwave-popcorn factory were diagnosed with the same severe lung disease — bronchiolitis obliterans — also known as “Popcorn Lung.” The disease causes scarring of tiny air-sacs in the lungs, which permanently narrows the airways and makes it harder to breathe. Symptoms may include:
- Dry cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath, especially on exertion
- Weakness and fatigue
- Night sweats
- And more
What is Popcorn Lung?
By 2006, nearly 200 cases of “Popcorn Lung” were reported in popcorn factory workers, including three who died. Investigators linked the illnesses to artificial butter flavoring, which often contains diacetyl.
Diacetyl is produced on an industrial scale as a food additive to impart a creamy or buttery taste. It is safe to eat and drink in foods, but inhaling it is a risk-factor for lung disease.
The problem is that recent studies have found potentially toxic levels of diacetyl in vaping liquids used in e-cigarettes. People who smoke traditional tobacco cigarettes are also exposed to diacetyl. Those who switch to e-cigarettes because they were marketed as “healthier” may still be vaping toxic chemicals.
Five Pawns Class Action Lawsuit
In November 2015, a class action lawsuit (PDF) (Case No. 8:15-cv-01859) was filed against Five Pawns, LLC by three men who purchased vaping liquids for e-cigarettes. They accuse Five Pawns of selling flavored liquids with diacetyl [DA] and 2,3-pentanedione [AP] in the “highest concentration that has ever been seen in any e-liquid.”
According to the complaint:
“Absolute Pin tested at 40 μg/ml of DA and an astonishing 2,500 μg/ml of AP. This means, if a person inhales just 2ml of Absolute Pin e-liquid they will be over the recommended intake for DA and more than 36 times over the recommended daily limit for AP.”
Cuttwood Class Action Lawsuit
In December 2015, a class action lawsuit (PDF) was filed in California against Cuttwood, Inc., manufacturer of vaping liquid products like “Unicorn’s Milk” and “Boss Reserve.” According to the complaint, independent test results show that Cuttwood’s e-liquids contain detectable amounts of diacetyl and 2,3-pentanedione.
What is the problem?
The Clark Firm, LLC is nationally recognized as a class action law firm in Texas, but we are not filing class actions against the manufacturers of flavored vaping liquids. Instead, we are filing individual lawsuits on behalf of people who were diagnosed with lung disease after vaping, such as:
- Popcorn Lung
- Bronchiolitis obliterans
- Fixed airway obstruction
- Chronic bronchitis
- Asthma
- Diseases of the small airway
- And more
About Class Actions
Class actions are filed by a small number of plaintiffs on behalf of a much larger group of people with the same legal claim — for example, purchasing vaping liquids that contain toxic chemicals. If compensation is awarded, everyone shares the payout.
Why Our Law Firm is Filing Individual Lawsuits as Opposed to a Class Action
For people with severe injuries like permanent lung damage, a class action can have disadvantages. Members may have to accept a “low-ball” settlement or higher attorneys’ fees. Our attorneys specialize in helping victims of defective, dangerous products file lawsuits and seek compensation for their injuries. If you or a loved one was diagnosed with a lung disease after vaping e-cigarettes, we may be able to help you file a lawsuit.
Need a Popcorn Lung Lawyer in Texas?
Collen A. Clark is a true advocate for his clients and is passionate about helping Texans that have been injured or wronged.
Collen’s amazing success in the courtroom and well known dedication to his clients has earned him the recognition of his peers as one of The Top Trial Lawyers in Texas.”
The Clark Firm has assembled a team of trial lawyers with more than 100 years experience, participation in over 600 jury trials and $260 million in verdicts and/or settlements. Please use the form below to contact our Texas Popcorn Lung lawyers for a free lawsuit review.