Philips Respironics

Philips Respironics Cancer Lawsuits

If you have a Philips Respironics device, you could be at risk for cancer. A recall in mid-2021 reveals evidence the company was aware of problems with its products. People that used these products may have a valid claim for compensation.

What Is Philips Respironics?

Philips Respironics is a medical device manufacturer. The company makes devices like CPAP and BiPAP machines. These machines are prescribed to treat patients with sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder. With sleep apnea, a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This is a potentially serious and life-threatening health problem. Treatment for sleep apnea often includes a breathing assistance device.

Breathing Assistance Devices

Doctors treat sleep apnea with breathing assistance devices, like CPAP and BiPAP machines. These devices help patients with sleep apnea.

How Can A CPAP Cause Cancer?

CPAP and BiPAP devices push air through the mouth and nose into the lungs. Philips Respironics cancer lawsuits link the materials it used to certain cancers.

Dangerous Materials

Philips used materials with known carcinogens as a sound and vibration dampener. While the carcinogens aren’t harmful to the touch, they cause cancer when they enter the lungs. The materials the company used deteriorate over time. When the foam breaks down, particles travel through breathing tubes into the user’s lungs.

PE-PUR Foam

Philips used PE-PUR foam to reduce sound and vibration in its products. PE-PUR is a polyester-based polyurethane foam product. Effects of exposure to this product include:

eye and/or skin irritation
headache
dizziness
nausea/vomiting
inflammatory response
asthma
toxic or carcinogenic effects to organs (kidney, liver, lungs, etc.)
cancer

FDA Investigation

Because the materials are hidden from view, many users won’t even know if there is a problem. But, Philips Respironics received reports of problems from users for some time before the FDA became involved.