Millions of Philips Respironics sleep apnea machines were called over concerns that users might be inhaling cancer-causing and toxic chemicals through a kind of sound-reduction foam used in the device. The company said the foam could break down into tiny particles that can be inhaled or ingested by those who use the machines, leading to serious respiratory issues and cancers. Philips said it will replace or repair their affected machines. It has advised users to stop using the defective machines. If you experience respiratory problems and cancer caused by CPAP devices, you must speak with your doctor before you stop using them. Also, consult an attorney to know your legal options.
Important Things to Know About the Safety Recall
The Philips BiPAP and CPAP machines help sleep apnea sufferers breathe by pushing air into their lungs. When not treated, sleep apnea can put sufferers at risk of heart failure, hypertension, heart attack, and reduced quality of life. The recalled machines are made with a kind of foam that may break down or degrade over time and emits carcinogens that users may inhale. Such a breakdown may accelerate in environments that have high heat and humidity. Also, Philips suspects some cleaning products, particularly ozone-based cleaning devices may cause the foam to degrade.
Possible Health Risks of Using CPAP Machines
The use of the recalled machines is associated with short-term and long-term risks. Short-term risks include headache, allergic reactions, as well as skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritation. Long-term risks include asthma, liver damage, and kidney damage.
Lawsuits filed by victims alleged that despite the company’s awareness of these issues for years, it only made a public safety announcement in April 2021 and announced a recall in June 2021. Some people also find it troubling that the company deliberately delayed its recall until they have new safe versions of those machines to replace the defective ones.
Who Qualifies for a CPAP Lawsuit?
Not all consumers who use Philips CPAP machines are qualified to file a lawsuit. Qualified individuals should meet certain criteria. To qualify, a user must have used a Philips sleep apnea machine every night for a minimum of six months, suffered adverse health conditions such as respiratory issues, organ damage, and cancers.
Attorneys are speaking with victims about lawsuits against the maker of the recalled sleep apnea machines. Those who meet the qualifying criteria must set come forward and talk to a lawyer about a possible CPAP lawsuit to get significant financial compensation from Philips.