Philips CPAP And BiPAP Class Action Lawsuit – Sleep Apnea Machines Recalled Because Of Cancer Risks
Edelson Lechtzin LLP lawyers are evaluating claims alleging that recently recalled Philips CPAP and BiPAP machines can increase users’ risk of cancer.
Philips North America LLC and Philips RS North America LLC (collectively “Phillips”) manufacture and sell a variety of machines that are used to treat sleep apnea and respiratory failure. Philips is the largest manufacturer of CPAP machines and is responsible for around 65% of the sleep apnea devices available on the market.
Certain Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (“CPAP”) and Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (“BiPAP”), and other ventilators offered by Philips were recalled on June 14, 2021 because the polyester-based polyurethane foam (“PE-PUR”) in these machines has been linked to respiratory illnesses. The PE-PUR, which is used for sound abatement, deteriorates over time and can fragment into small pieces that may be inhaled or ingested. These tiny PE-PUR particles can then release dangerous chemicals and volatile organic compounds (“VOCs”) into the user’s airway, which can cause organ diseases like pulmonary fibrosis and may lead to cancer.
The Philips recall includes:
- DreamStation ASV, ST & AVAPS
- DreamStation CPAP, Auto CPAP, BiPAP
- DreamStation GO CPAP, APAP
- Dorma 400, 500 CPAP
- REMStar SE Auto CPAP
- C Series ASV, S/T, AVAPS
- OmniLab Advanced Plus In-Lab Titration Device
- SystemOne ASV4 & Q Series
- Trilogy 100 & 200 Ventilators
- Garbin Plus, Aeris, LifeVent Ventilator
- A-Series BiPAP V30 Auto Ventilator
- E30
The lawsuit alleges that Philips has known for several years about the potential harm that their medical devices could cause to customers, but only issued a recall once their new line of products were ready. The complaint alleges that the Netherlands-based company purposefully withheld information related to the dangers of the PE-PUR in their machines so that users would have to buy their new and now-safer products. There is a possibility that Philips will not be able to replace the recalled items for over a year, which leaves little choice for the many customers who depend on their CPAP machines for daily relief.
Am I Eligible?
If you or a loved one has developed cancer, organ damage, difficulty breathing, pneumonia, stroke, and/or other health related issues after using one of the recalled devices, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Reach out to our office if you have any questions or concerns about the case or your eligibility.
Contact Us
Edelson Lechtzin LLP is investigating whether purchasers of these machines have suffered economic harm and/or personal injury as a result of the inclusion of the foam in the machines. If you have purchased one of the Philips machines and would like to discuss your legal rights, please complete the form below or contact us at 844-696-7492 toll free for a free initial consultation.