More than 20 attorneys, representing a total of 73 people, recently met to discuss the first steps in a $5-billion federal lawsuit, spanning at least 15 U.S. states, over injuries caused by the chemicals released from Teflon-coated pans.The attorneys hope to combine all of the individual complaints into one class-action lawsuit against Teflon maker DuPont. If they receive class-action certification, hearings could come as early as January.
This could eventually lead to refunds for millions of Teflon cookware purchasers throughout the United States.
If you aren't aware that Teflon is dangerous you need to understand that when any Teflon is heated to high temperatures it releases a toxic gas that can cause serious health problems for you. This problem is not restricted to Teflon; it is true for any non-stick finish, as they are made from similar fluoride-type compounds.
So if you have any Teflon type pots or pans it is time to give them away to a neighbor or family member you aren't too fond of.
Seriously, if you haven't gotten rid of all your pots or pans coated with Teflon yet, today is as good as any. Believe me, it took a few years for me to become convinced. Please don't trade your health for the sake of convenience.
An independent advisory panel to the EPA has advised that PFOA and other non-stick and stain-resistant chemicals are "likely" carcinogens. The EPA's own Science Advisory Board has unanimously approved that classification.
If even that doesn't convince you and you want an example of how PFOA can harm your health, I urge you to review Gary Craig's account of treating a long-standing health problem by getting rid of his tainted cookware.
I also strongly urge you to read Our Toxic World: A Wake Up Call. The author, Dr. Doris Rapp, does a thorough job of uncovering the many ways you are exposed to toxic chemicals, and how they could take a toll on your health and contribute to several chronic diseases.
Interestingly, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was so very late in calling for their "ban" -- and a toothless, voluntary one at that -- on perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), the suspected carcinogen used in making Teflon, that more Americans have been forced to take action against the source, DuPont.
This consumer class-action case would be based on DuPont's failure to alert customers about Teflon toxicity.
Late last year, the EPA fined DuPont some $300 million for hiding the harmful effects of PFOA, mere pocket change to that multi-national company. Perhaps, $5 billion will get their attention ...