Mass tort litigation plays a crucial role in the legal system, helping victims seek justice and compensation from corporations and entities responsible for harm. In 2025, several high-profile mass tort cases are making headlines across the United States.
This blog explores these cases in detail, including their background, legal standing, and implications for victims.
What Is a Mass Tort Lawsuit?
A mass tort is a civil action involving numerous plaintiffs against one or a few defendants in state or federal court. Unlike class-action lawsuits, mass tort cases allow each plaintiff to file an individual claim while sharing resources and legal proceedings with others who have suffered similar harm.
These cases typically involve defective products, dangerous drugs, environmental disasters, and corporate negligence.
Why Are Mass Tort Cases Important?
Mass tort litigation serves a vital function in holding large corporations accountable. These lawsuits:
- Help victims receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Push corporations to improve product safety and ethical practices.
- Influence regulatory changes that benefit public health and consumer protection.
Top 10 Ongoing Mass Tort Cases in the U.S.
1. Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit
Background: The U.S. Marine Corps Base at Camp Lejeune had toxic chemicals in its water supply from the 1950s to the 1980s, leading to severe health issues such as cancer, birth defects, and neurological disorders.
Current Status: Lawsuits have surged after the passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act in 2022, allowing affected individuals to sue the government.
Implications: If successful, these lawsuits will provide compensation to military personnel, their families, and civilian workers exposed to the contaminated water. This case is significant because it involves government accountability and the long-term impact of toxic exposure.
2. Paraquat Herbicide Exposure Lawsuit
Background: Paraquat, a widely used herbicide, has been linked to Parkinson’s disease. Farmers and agricultural workers exposed to it are filing lawsuits against manufacturers like Syngenta.
Current Status: Litigation is progressing, with evidence mounting against the chemical companies for failing to warn users about the risks.
Implications: A victory in these cases could lead to increased regulation of toxic agricultural chemicals, changes in farming practices, and substantial compensation for affected individuals and their families.
3. Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit
Background: Lawsuits allege that Johnson & Johnson’s talcum-based baby powder caused ovarian cancer due to asbestos contamination.
Current Status: Johnson & Johnson has attempted to settle lawsuits through bankruptcy filings, but courts have blocked these moves, allowing individual claims to proceed.
Implications: Billions of dollars are at stake, and the outcome could impact future product liability cases. This lawsuit also raises concerns about corporate transparency in consumer safety.
4. Hair Relaxer Cancer Lawsuit
Background: Chemical hair relaxers have been linked to uterine cancer, fibroids, and other reproductive issues, especially among Black women.
Current Status: Lawsuits against major beauty brands are growing as more research confirms the health risks.
Implications: This case highlights the need for safer beauty products and greater transparency in product labeling. If the plaintiffs succeed, it could reshape the beauty industry’s safety standards.
5. Ozempic and Wegovy Stomach Paralysis Lawsuits
Background: These popular weight loss and diabetes drugs have been associated with severe gastrointestinal issues, including stomach paralysis.
Current Status: Plaintiffs allege manufacturers failed to warn about these potential side effects.
Implications: Pharmaceutical companies may face stricter FDA regulations on labeling and advertising. Additionally, if settlements occur, affected patients could receive compensation for medical treatments and lost wages.
6. Social Media Addiction Lawsuits
Background: Lawsuits claim that platforms like Meta (Facebook & Instagram) knowingly designed their algorithms to be addictive, leading to mental health issues in children and teens.
Current Status: Cases are gaining traction as whistleblowers and former employees provide evidence of corporate negligence.
Implications: A win for plaintiffs could result in new regulations governing social media usage among minors, including stronger parental controls and restrictions on algorithm-driven content.
7. AFFF Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuit
Background: Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) used by firefighters contains PFAS chemicals, linked to cancer and other serious health conditions.
Current Status: Lawsuits are being consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) to streamline legal proceedings.
Implications: A settlement could provide compensation for thousands of affected firefighters and military personnel. This case also pushes for alternatives to harmful firefighting chemicals.
8. Hernia Mesh Failure Lawsuits
Background: Defective hernia mesh implants have caused severe complications, requiring revision surgeries.
Current Status: Major manufacturers, including Bard and Ethicon, are facing thousands of lawsuits.
Implications: A successful outcome could lead to better testing standards for medical implants. Patients affected by faulty hernia mesh may receive compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
9. NEC Baby Formula Lawsuits
Background: Certain baby formula brands have been linked to Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), a severe gastrointestinal disease in premature infants.
Current Status: Lawsuits against manufacturers like Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson are ongoing.
Implications: The case could force baby formula companies to improve their safety standards and product labeling. It could also lead to better oversight of formula production and marketing practices.
10. CPAP Machine Recall Lawsuits
Background: Philips recalled millions of CPAP and BiPAP machines due to toxic foam breakdown, which users inhaled, leading to severe respiratory illnesses.
Current Status: Lawsuits are consolidated into MDL, and settlements are being negotiated.
Implications: A strong case against Philips could push medical device manufacturers to enhance product safety and improve recall processes to prevent future harm.
How to Join a Mass Tort Lawsuit
If you or a loved one has been affected by one of these issues, you may qualify for compensation. Steps to take:
- Consult a Lawyer – Find an experienced mass tort attorney.
- Gather Evidence – Collect medical records, receipts, and other documentation.
- File a Claim – Work with your lawyer to initiate a lawsuit.
- Join an MDL (if applicable) – If your case is part of a multidistrict litigation, your claim will be handled along with others.
Final Thoughts
Mass tort cases play a significant role in consumer protection, corporate accountability, and public health. These lawsuits can take years to resolve but have the power to bring justice to victims and prevent future harm. If you believe you’ve been harmed by a defective product, dangerous drug, or corporate negligence, consulting an attorney is the first step toward seeking justice.
