Consumer Alerts
Warning Given on Drug's Use to Treat Lupus
December 19, 2006
Biogen Idec and Genentech have warned doctors of two deaths among patients receiving the cancer drug Rituxan as a treatment for the autoimmune disorder lupus. The medicine, used to treat patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and rheumatoid arthritis, is not approved as a therapy for lupus, Biogen, based in Cambridge, Mass., said yesterday in a regulatory filing. The patients developed a rare brain infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, or P.M.L., the companies said.
SOURCE: New York Times
Small Cars Come Up Short in Crash-Test Safety Study
December 19, 2006
Small cars are back in vogue because of high gasoline prices but most fail to provide the same safety protection that buyers find in bigger vehicles, according to the results of new tests simulating crashes with sport utility vehicles or pickup trucks.
SOURCE: New York Times
Lifetime Brands Inc. Recalls Farberware® Fruit Slicer and Corer Due to Laceration Hazard
December 19, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Lifetime Brands Inc., of Westbury, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 207,000 Farberware Classic Series Fruit Slicer and Corer. The metal blade can separate from the plastic handle during use, resulting in cuts to consumer's hands and fingers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. Recalls Christmas Mug Gift Sets
December 19, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Wal-Mart Stores Inc., of Bentonville, Ark., is voluntarily recalling about 70,300 Holiday Time™ Christmas Mug Gift Sets. The buttons could detach from the plush characters sold with the mug gift sets, posing a choking hazard to young children.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Crown Boiler Co. Recalls Boilers Due to Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Hazard
December 19, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Crown Boiler Co., of Philadelphia, Pa., is voluntarily recalling about 400 Bermuda BSI and Cayman CWI Series Gas Boilers. The boilers can generate excessive levels of carbon monoxide (CO) in the flue gases, posing a risk of CO poisoning.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Celebrate Express Inc. Recalls Gigantic Gemstone Ring Party Favors Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard
December 19, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Celebrate Express Inc., of Kirkland, Wash., is voluntarily recalling about 194,000 Gigantic Gemstone Rings. The recalled rings could contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Carmakers Fight Global Warming Lawsuit
December 18, 2006
The six largest automakers asked a federal judge to toss out a lawsuit by California that accuses them of harming human health and the environment by producing vehicles that contribute to global warming. The American and Japanese auto companies filed a motion Friday in U.S. District Court in Oakland to dismiss the state's suit, and an attorney for the carmakers said Saturday that state officials who want to reduce auto emissions should do it through regulation not litigation.
SOURCE: Associated Press
Remote-Control Helicopter Toys Recalled Due to Burn Hazard
December 18, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), ThinkGeek Inc., of Fairfax, Va., is voluntarily recalling about 1,600 Remote-Control Dragonfly King HX-242 Helicopters (also known as the Micro R/C Helicopter). The helicopter battery can overheat and catch fire, posing a burn hazard to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Square D Recalls Safety Switches Due to Shock or Electrocution Hazard
December 15, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Square D Co., of Palatine, Ill., is voluntarily recalling about 27,600 General Duty Safety Switches. The safety switch can continue to supply electricity even after being placed in the 'OFF' position. This poses the risk of an electric shock or electrocution hazard to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Nintendo of America Initiates Replacement Program for Wrist Straps Used with Controllers for the Wii Video Game System
December 15, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Nintendo of America Inc., is voluntarily initiating a replacement program for about 2 million wrist straps used with controllers for the Nintendo Wii video game system. If consumers swing the hand-held 'Wii Remote' game controllers using excessive force and accidentally let go, the cord connecting the controller to the wrist strap can break, potentially causing the controller to strike bystanders or objects.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Pressure Washers and Air Compressors Recalled By DeVilbiss Due to Fracture and Laceration Hazards
December 15, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), DeVilbiss Air Power Company, of Jackson, Tenn., is voluntarily recalling about 620,000 pressure washers and 72,000 air compressors. The pressure washers and air compressors have pneumatic tires with plastic hubs that can burst, posing a laceration or fracture hazard to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Wal-Mart Recalls Stuffed Christmas Beagles Due to Choking Hazard
December 14, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Wal-Mart Stores Inc., of Bentonville, Ark., is voluntarily recalling about 56,000 Holiday Time™ Stuffed Christmas Beagles. The red pompoms on the wreath attached to the beagle's mouth could detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Macy’s Recalls Infant Coveralls Due to Choking Hazard
December 14, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Macy's Merchandising Group Inc., of New York, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 500 Baby greendog girl's knit coveralls. The snaps on the legs of the coveralls can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Clarion Recalls Vehicle Navigation and Entertainment System Batteries Due to Burn and Fire Hazards
December 14, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Clarion Corporation of America, of Cypress, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 2,500 Batteries in Clarion N.I.C.E. P200 Navigation and Entertainment Systems. The lithium-ion batteries in these units can melt or overheat posing burn and fire hazards to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Hobby Lobby Stores Inc. Recalls Christmas Light Sets Due to Shock and Fire Hazards
December 14, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Hobby Lobby Stores Inc., of Oklahoma City, Okla., is voluntarily recalling about 2.3 million sets of Hobby Lobby Christmas Light Sets. The lights have undersized wires which can separate from the plugs and/or the light sockets, posing an electric shock and fire hazard to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Children’s “Powerpuff Girls” Necklaces Recalled Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard
December 13, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Rhode Island Novelty, of Cumberland, R.I., is voluntarily recalling about 48,000 Children's Powerpuff Girls necklaces. The recalled jewelry contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Lifetime Brands Inc. Recalls Lemonade Jars For Lead Exposure Hazard
December 13, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Lifetime Brands Inc., of Westbury, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 6,600 Gemco� Lemonade Jars. The metal spigot contains lead and is in direct contact with the contents of the lemonade jar. Lemonade and other beverages can cause the lead to leach from the spigot. Long-term exposure to lead in children may be associated with behavioral problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems and growth retardation.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
BRIO Corp. Recalls Bell Rattles for Choking Hazard
December 13, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), BRIO AB, of Sweden, is voluntarily recalling about 5,550 BRIO Bell Rattles. The small bell positioned between the wood slats can break and allow access to small parts. This poses a choking hazard to young children.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Children’s Butterfly Necklaces Recalled by U.S. Toy Co. Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard
December 13, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), U.S. Toy Co. Inc., of Grandview, Mo., is voluntarily recalling about 29,000 Children's Butterfly Necklaces. The clasps on the necklaces contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
“See Kai Run” Brand Children’s Boots Recalled, Snaps Pose Choking Hazard
December 13, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), See Kai Run, of Woodinville, Wash., is voluntarily recalling about 6,500 Children's Boots. Metals snaps on the side closure of the boot can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Side Effects: Hair-Loss Drug May Affect Marker for Cancer
December 12, 2006
Men who take a drug to reduce hair loss may also be reducing their levels of P.S.A., a marker for prostate cancer. That may sound like a good thing, but while the drug lowers the level of P.S.A., it does not lower the risk of cancer. In fact, a new study reports, doctors could be misled into concluding that a patient's risk is lower than it really is. Writing in The Lancet Oncology, researchers said the drug they looked at, Proscar, could halve the blood levels of P.S.A., or prostate-specific antigen. It is not known whether a close cousin of Proscar, Propecia, has the same effect. The study was conducted by Dr. Anthony V. D'Amico of Brigham and Women's Hospital and Dr. Claus G. Roehrborn of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
SOURCE: New York Times
Emerson Electric Co. Recalls Ceiling Fans for Injury Hazard from Falling Blades
December 12, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Air Comfort Products Division of Emerson Electric Co., of St. Louis, Mo., is voluntarily recalling about 4,000 Emerson 60-inch Designer Ceiling Fan. The brackets holding the fan blades can break, causing the blade to detach. Falling pieces can hit and injure bystanders.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Liberty Mountain Recalls Climbing Harnesses Due to Fall Hazard
December 12, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Liberty Mountain, of Salt Lake City, Utah, is voluntarily recalling about 5,900 Edelweiss Challenge Climbing Harnesses. The buckles on the harness' leg loops could fail, posing a fall hazard for climbers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Study: Long hospital shifts, sleep deprivation can kill
December 11, 2006
Medical residents are routinely scheduled to work shifts that last 24 hours or more, yet a study out today suggests that these sleep-deprived doctors are at high risk of making medical mistakes that can harm or even kill patients. 'Working for more than 24 hours is hazardous,' says sleep researcher Charles Czeisler at the Harvard Medical School. Scores of studies show that people who stay awake for 18 hours straight can have trouble thinking clearly and can zone out or nod off suddenly. In July 2003, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, a Chicago group that accredits medical residency programs, limited work schedules to no more than 80 hours in a week. But the rules still allow marathon shifts that last up to 30 hours.
SOURCE: USA Today
Editorial: Making the Highways Less Safe
December 10, 2006
While avowing professionalism, this cadre of political contributors and industry insiders has brazenly relaxed federal standards for truck safety over the last six years. Rather than tightening drivers' hours as safety specialists advised, the political powers at the truck safety agency have actually loosened them - increasing the maximum driving hours to 77 from 60 over seven days, and to 88 hours from 70 over eight consecutive days on the road. The industry's deep-pocketed lobbyists made sure the Republican-controlled Congress remained as passive as any glassy-eyed driver involved in the annual toll of 5,000 truck-related fatalities.
SOURCE: New York Times
Government Considers Banning Lead in Children's Jewelry
December 7, 2006
The staff of the Consumer Product Safety Commission has recommended that the commission effectively ban the lead in children's metal jewelry, citing the risk of lead poisoning. The proposal is subject to public comment and would require approval by the full commission, which is scheduled to vote next week.
SOURCE: Washington Post
Heart Risk Seen in Drug for Anemia
November 16, 2006
A medical study to be released today suggests that high doses of a best-selling drug used to treat anemia in dialysis and cancer patients may increase the risk of heart problems and deaths. Almost a million Americans a year receive prescriptions for the drug, known as epoetin, or darbepoetin, a closely related drug also used in anemia treatment. Worldwide, sales of the two drugs - sold under the brand names Epogen, Procrit and Aranesp - topped $9 billion last year for Amgen and Johnson & Johnson, their makers. Researchers for the study, to be published in The New England Journal of Medicine, divided anemic patients with kidney disease into two groups. One group received epoetin with a goal of almost fully correcting their anemia, a lack of red blood cells associated with fatigue and shortness of breath. The others were allowed to remain more anemic and generally received less epoetin. Patients in the first group were 34 percent more likely to die or suffer heart problems than those in the second.
SOURCE: New York Times
Desk Lamps Sold at Office Depot Recalled for Shock Hazard
November 16, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Environmental Lighting Concepts Inc., of Tampa, Fla., is voluntarily recalling about 6,800 Taylor Desk Lamps. The fiberglass sheath intended to protect the electrical cord can become improperly aligned during consumer assembly of the lamp. This poses a shock hazard to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Scott Electric Co. Inc. Recalls Counterfeit Circuit Breakers Due To Fire Hazard
November 16, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Scott Electric Co. Inc., of Greensburg, Pa., is voluntarily recalling about 30,000 Counterfeit "Square D" Circuit Breakers. The recalled circuit breakers labeled "Square D" are counterfeit and might not trip when they are overloaded, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Target Recalls Various Toys Due to Lead and Laceration Hazards
November 15, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Target Stores, of Minneapolis, Minn., is voluntarily recalling about 190,500 "Kool Toyz" Children's Products. Some of these toys contain lead paint, which is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects. Also, some of the toys have sharp points, posing laceration or puncture wound hazards.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Target Recalls “Play Wonder” Puzzle Tables for Choking and Laceration Hazards
November 15, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Target, of Minneapolis, Minn., is voluntarily recalling about 7,100 "Play Wonder" Puzzle Tables. The handles on the puzzle pieces can come off, posing a choking hazard to young children. Also, the tips of the nails on the inside shelf of the puzzle table could be exposed, posing a laceration or puncture hazard.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Decorative Snaps and Metal Clips Recalled by Provo Craft Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard
November 15, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Provo Craft, of Spanish Fork, Utah, is voluntarily recalling about 76,000 Decorative Snaps and Metal Clips. The recalled clips and snaps contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
ANSUL® Recalls Fire Extinguisher that Could Fail to Operate
November 13, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Ansul Incorporated, of Marinette, Wis., is voluntarily recalling about 154,000 K-GUARD®, SENTRY® and FLAG FIRE® Model Fire Extinguishers. If the fire extinguisher is dropped horizontally from a height of approximately 2 to 3 feet, the pick-up tube could crack at the threads between the pick-up tube adaptor and the stainless steel tube. If a pick-up tube is cracked, the extinguisher can fail to discharge properly when activated, which can put users at risk during a fire.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Contaminated With Metal, a Painkiller Is Recalled
November 10, 2006
Millions of bottles of the widely used pain reliever acetaminophen, some sold as long as three years ago, are being recalled because they may contain metal fragments. CVS's store brand of acetaminophen is one of those affected. The voluntary recall affects 11 million bottles containing varying quantities of 500-milligram acetaminophen caplets made by the Perrigo Company. The pills were sold under store brands or private labels by Wal-Mart, CVS, Safeway, SuperValu and more than 120 other major retailers, the Food and Drug Administration said.
SOURCE: Amherst Times
Remote-Control Helix Micro Helicopter Toys Recalled for Burn Hazard
November 9, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Spin Master Toys, of Toronto, Canada, is voluntarily recalling about 46,200 Helix Remote Control Micro Helicopter. The power supply controller can overheat posing a burn hazard to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Gund Inc. Recalls Woodles™ Activity Toys for Choking Hazard
November 9, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Gund Inc., of Edison, N.J., is voluntarily recalling about 18,900 Baby Gund Woodles™ Activity Toys. The wooden rings on the stuffed toy can break, posing a small parts choking hazard to young children.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
“Cars” Toy Chests Sold at Toys “R” Us Recalled by Delta Enterprise Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard
November 9, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Delta Enterprise Corp., New York, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 3,000 "Cars" Toy Storage Benches. The red paint on the partition panels of the toy box contains high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Enesco Group Inc. Recalls Heartwood Creek® Turtle Sprinklers for Laceration Hazard
November 9, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Enesco Group Inc., of Itasca, Ill., is voluntarily recalling about 2,600 Heartwood Creek Turtle Sprinklers. When connected to a garden hose, under normal household water pressure, the sprinkler can break or shatter, presenting a laceration hazard to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Black & Decker Recalls Blower/Vacuums for Fire Hazard
October 10, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc., of Towson, Md., is voluntarily recalling about 272,000 Black & Decker BV4000 Type 1 Blower/Vacs. A loose connection between the blower/vac and an extension cord can cause overheating, posing a fire hazard.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Black & Decker Recalls Blower/Vacuums for Fire Hazard
October 10, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc., of Towson, Md., is voluntarily recalling about 272,000 Black & Decker BV4000 Type 1 Blower/Vacs. A loose connection between the blower/vac and an extension cord can cause overheating, posing a fire hazard.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Banned Elsewhere, Compounds Still Used in U.S.
October 8, 2006
Although chemical bans overseas have prompted some manufacturers to reformulate all their products worldwide, many toys and cosmetics are exceptions. Europe banned or restricted six phthalate compounds in toys. In beauty products, Europe has eliminated 900 compounds, including two phthalates, suspected of causing reproductive disorders, cancer or genetic mutations. The U.S. toy industry said seven years ago, when the European Union first banned some phthalates, that it would voluntarily remove them from products for babies and toddlers. But last year, 15 of 18 vinyl bath toys, teethers that babies chew on and other toys purchased at U.S. stores contained the chemicals, according to tests by the activist organization U.S. Public Interest Research Group. One plastic book labeled 'phthalate free' contained phthalates.
SOURCE: Los Angeles Times
Agio International Recalls Outdoor Gas Fire Pits Due to Fire Hazard
October 5, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Agio-USA, is voluntarily recalling about 22,000 Outdoor Gas Fire Pits. If the regulator hose for the propane cylinder contacts the burner during use, the hose can rupture, presenting a risk of a fire outside of the unit.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
MTD Snow Throwers Recalled – Plastic Wheel Rims Can Burst and Injure Users
October 5, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), MTD Products Inc, of Cleveland, Ohio, is voluntarily recalling about 130,000 Two-Stage Compact Snow Throwers. If the snow thrower's tires are over-inflated, the plastic wheel rims can burst, posing a risk of lacerations and fractures.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Fujitsu Recalls 287,000 Sony Laptop Batteries
October 4, 2006
Japanese electronics maker Fujitsu Ltd. said Wednesday it is recalling 287,000 laptop batteries manufactured by Sony Corp., the latest in a massive global recall of the batteries that can overheat and catch fire. Affected are 224,000 laptops sold overseas across 10 models, including the popular Lifebook series, according to Fujitsu spokesman Masao Sakamoto. The remaining 63,000 were sold across 17 models in Japan.
SOURCE: Houston Chronicle
FreeMotion Fitness Inc. Recalls Exercise Machines - Weights Can Unexpectedly Drop, Hit Users
October 3, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), FreeMotion Fitness Inc., of Colorado Springs, Colo., is voluntarily recalling about 5,600 FreeMotion Cable Cross and Dual Cable Cross Exercise Machines. The selector pin for the weight plates can slip out of its slot if the edges of the pin are worn, allowing the weights to drop suddenly. Falling weight plates can hit consumers using the machines.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Scubapro Recalls MK 20 Scuba Regulators for Service
October 2, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Scubapro USA, of El Cajon, Calif. is voluntarily recalling about 48,500 Scubapro® MK 20 First Stage Regulators. Over-tightening of the Yoke or Din retainer during annual servicing of these regulators could result in a stress crack and failure of the regulator. If this occurs during a dive, air supply could be interrupted, posing a drowning hazard.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Lenovo and IBM Announce Recall of ThinkPad Notebook Computer Batteries Due to Fire Hazard
September 28, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Lenovo (United States) Inc., of Research Triangle Park, N.C. and International Business Machines Corp., of Armonk, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 168,500 battery packs. These lithium-ion batteries can cause overheating, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Cervélo Cycles Inc. Announces Recall of Bicycles Due to Fall Hazard
September 28, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Cervélo Cycles Inc., of Toronto, Canada, is voluntarily recalling about 650 2005 R2.5 Model Carbon Fiber Bicycles and Bicycle Frames. The bicycle frames can loosen or separate, causing the rider to lose control, fall and be injured.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Suave Kids Bath Sets Sold at Wal-Mart Recalled for Choking, Other Hazards
September 27, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Almar Sales Co., of New York, NY, is voluntarily recalling about 11,000 Suave Kids Bath Sets. Items in the baths sets contain small parts that pose a choking hazard to young children. Additionally, some of the handles on the carrying case are long enough to pose a strangulation hazard. Also, the plastic carrying case poses a danger of suffocation.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. Recalls MULE Utility Vehicles Due to Loss of Steering Hazard
September 27, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., of Irvine, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 400 Kawasaki MULE utility vehicles. These vehicles could have been assembled with improperly manufactured steering knuckles that could break while the vehicle is in operation. This can cause a loss of steering control and cause a crash resulting in injury or death.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
'Dr. Phil' Diet Pill Maker Settles Suit
September 26, 2006
Buyers of diet products endorsed by TV psychologist 'Dr. Phil' McGraw will be eligible for cash refunds or replacement vitamin supplements under terms of a $10.5-million settlement of a lawsuit alleging that the products didn't work as advertised. The Shape Up products, which are no longer distributed or sold, included shakes, bars and multi-vitamins made by CSA Nutraceuticals of Irving, Texas.
SOURCE: Los Angeles Times
Brain-Disorder Warning Added to Avastin Label
September 26, 2006
Genentech Inc. has added warnings about a rare brain condition called reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome, or RPLS, in patients using its cancer drug Avastin, the Food and Drug Administration said. The drug's label also now includes information about seven reports of patients who developed holes inside the nose called septum perforations, the FDA said on its website. Genentech said in March it was working to include the information on the prescribing label while it reviewed data about the frequency of the brain condition.
SOURCE: Boston Globe
Playskool Voluntarily Recalls Toy Tool Benches after the Death of Two Toddlers
September 22, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Playskool, of Pawtucket, R.I., is voluntarily recalling about 255,000 Team Talkin' Tool Bench toys following the deaths of two young children. Playskool received reports that a 19-month-old boy from Martinsburg, W.V., and a 2-year-old boy from League City, Texas, suffocated when oversized, plastic toy nails sold with the tool bench toys became forcefully lodged in their throats.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Birth-Control Patch Label To Include New Risk Data
September 21, 2006
The Food and Drug Administration said a Johnson & Johnson birth-control patch will carry information about the possibility the product might increase the risk of blood clots in women beyond that seen in typical birth-control pills. The agency said the label will carry a discussion of two recent clinical studies of the patch that were conducted in the wake of concerns about possible increases in clot risk. The two studies show conflicting results, the FDA said. One study suggests the birth-control patch doesn't carry a blood clot risk higher than a birth-control pill, while the other suggests an almost twofold increase in the risk of venous thromboembolism, or blood clots. Preliminary results of the studies were released in February, and the updated findings released yesterday are similar.
SOURCE: The Wall Street Journal
Gildan Activewear Recalls Youth Hooded Sweatshirts with Drawstrings for Strangulation Hazard
September 20, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Gildan Activewear SRL, of Barbados, is voluntarily recalling 114,000 Youth Hooded Sweatshirts. These sweatshirts have a drawstring through the hood, posing a strangulation hazard to children.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
The Cayre Group Recalls Hooded Sweatshirts with Drawstrings Sold at Kohl’s for Strangulation Hazard
September 20, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), The Cayre Group, of New York, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 4,500 "Candie's" Brand Children's Hoodie Sweatshirts with Drawstrings. These sweatshirts have a drawstring through the hood, posing a strangulation hazard to children.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Vioxx-Like Risks Linked to Another Pain Pill
September 13, 2006
The widely used pain reliever diclofenac poses the same cardiovascular risk as the withdrawn drug Vioxx and should not be used by people with heart disease or high blood pressure, researchers reported Tuesday. Diclofenac, an older drug sold as Cataflam or Voltaren, increased patients' chance of heart attack by 40%, according to an analysis of 23 clinical studies - the same risk observed in patients who took low doses of Vioxx. The report was released early by the Journal of the American Medical Assn. because of its health implications. SOURCE: Los Angeles Times
Studies Find Higher Rates of Heart Risk With Vioxx
September 13, 2006
Vioxx, which is no longer on the market, may have posed heart risks that a similar drug, Celebrex, and other painkillers do not, according to two papers published yesterday by The Journal of the American Medical Association. In one paper, three researchers at Harvard examined 114 clinical trials of Vioxx and other drugs and found that Vioxx was linked to substantially higher rates of increased blood pressure than was Celebrex, a similar painkiller, which is still sold. In the other paper, two Australian researchers found that Vioxx appeared more dangerous than Celebrex or several older painkillers in observational studies, which examine the safety and effectiveness of drugs in real-world settings after they are approved.
John Deere Gas Barbecue Grills Recalled Due to Fire, Burn Hazards
September 13, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Onward Manufacturing, of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, Mi-T-M Corporation, of Peosta, Iowa, and Deere & Company, of Moline, Ill. are voluntarily recalling about 3,100 John Deere Gas Barbecue Grills. Operating the grill in windy conditions can blow the flame under the control panel, causing the grill to overheat or cause flashbacks. Flames could damage the hose that supplies gas to the burner, causing an uncontrolled flame. Also, the grill's control knobs could overheat, resulting in burns to hands.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Pride Products Recalls Counterfeit Extension Cords Due to Fire Hazard
September 13, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Pride Products Corp., of Ronkonkoma, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 42,000 Extension Cords. The counterfeit extension cords have undersized wiring and no fuse in the cord to provide over-current protection, which can cause overheating and pose a fire hazard.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
FDA whistle-blower Graham blasts new Merck arthritis drug
September 12, 2006
The arthritis drug that Merck has developed to compete with Celebrex may be as risky for the heart as Vioxx, writes Food and Drug Administration whistle-blower David Graham in an editorial posted online Tuesday by a medical journal. In considering whether Arcoxia should be approved, 'the FDA, academia, and the medical research enterprise are once again faced with the opportunity to forsake common sense by willfully accepting misdirection and disinformation presented in the guise of science,' Graham writes on the Journal of the American Medical Association's website. An editor's note says the FDA allowed Graham to write the editorial as a private citizen, not as an agency employee. The editorial and the two studies it accompanies will run in the Oct. 4 JAMA, but they were posted online early 'because of the public health implications,' a JAMA press release says.
Smokers Seek Class-Action Suit Status
September 12, 2006
Lawyers for smokers of light cigarettes have asked a federal judge to grant class-action status to a lawsuit against major tobacco companies, allowing tens of millions of people nationwide to seek as much as $200 billion in damages. In the lawsuit, filed in 2004, the smokers accused Altria Group Inc.'s Philip Morris USA Inc., R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., which is now part of Reynolds American Inc., and other defendants of deceiving them for more than 30 years by claiming low-tar cigarettes were less harmful than regular cigarettes. The manufacturers, they allege, knew the health risks were about the same. U.S. District Judge Jack Weinstein is scheduled to hear arguments on Wednesday in Brooklyn.
Pier 1 Imports Recalls TV Stands for Tipping Hazard
September 12, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Pier 1 Imports (U.S.) Inc., of Fort Worth, Texas, is voluntarily recalling about 4,300 Ming TV Stands. If a consumer leans on the stand's drawer when open, the unit can tilt forward and cause a television on top to slide off, posing a risk of injury or death.
Montana Man Renews Push for Child-Safety Legislation
September 7, 2006
Aaron Chatten, who lost his young daughter last year when a car accidentally backed over her, traveled from Glasgow to Capitol Hill this week to make a second tearful public plea for a bill requiring auto-safety features that could have saved his child. 'Next year, we're going to lose more and more kids,' he said. 'And the next year, more and more kids. ... I just really hope it doesn't have to be that way.' In a heartbreaking news conference, a handful of parents from around the country told stories of how they lost children to strangulation by power windows, cars backing up in driveways or vehicles that rolled away unexpectedly. The child safety advocacy group Kids and Cars organized the event. Chatten lost his 14-month-old daughter, Madison Faith Chatten, in May 2005 when a driver who couldn't see her in the driveway of her day-care center backed over her.
LeapFrog Recalls to Repair Children’s Activity Centers Due to Arm Entrapment Hazard
September 7, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), LeapFrog Enterprises Inc., of Emeryville, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 186,000 Playground Activity Centers. A child's arm can become caught in the activity center's plastic tube, posing a risk of injury to children.
Delta Combination Water Heaters Recalled by Triangle Tube for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Hazard
September 7, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Triangle Tube/Phase III, of Blackwood, N.J., is voluntarily recalling about 3,000 Water Heaters. The burner plate and flue hood seal on the water heaters can fail due to an improper seal causing a leak of flue gases and carbon monoxide (CO). This poses the risk of CO poisoning to consumers inside of the house.
Atico International USA Recalls 9-Foot Patio Umbrellas Sold at Longs Drug Stores for Lead Hazard
September 7, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Atico International USA Inc., of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., is voluntarily recalling about 27,700 Patio Umbrellas. The umbrella poles contain paint with excessive levels of lead, which can cause adverse health effects if ingested by young children.
Tissue for Transplant Is Recalled After FDA Shuts Down N.C. Firm
August 23, 2006
A leading medical firm has recalled hundreds of human-tissue products destined for transplants around the nation that were supplied by a North Carolina body-parts broker. On July 6, AlloSource of Centennial, Colo., began a recall of about 300 transplant parts supplied by Donor Referral Services of Raleigh, N.C., an AlloSource spokeswoman said yesterday. On Friday, the Food and Drug Administration shut down Donor Referral Services, saying the company, run by Philip Guyett, had 'serious deficiencies' in its processing, donor screening and record-keeping.
SOURCE: Washington Post
ITT Water Technology Inc. Recalls Faulty Pumps for Fire Suppression Systems
August 23, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Water Technology Inc., of Auburn, N.Y., is voluntarily recalling about 18,300 Goulds Pumps®, Bell & Gossett® and Red Jacket Water Products Brand Pumps for Fire Suppression Systems. A mechanical part on these pumps was not fully tightened, which can lead to the pump failing during use. If pumps sold with fire suppression systems fail, the risk of fire damage increases. The pump itself does not pose a fire hazard.
Weightlifting Bars Recalled by York Barbell Co. After Reports of Units Breaking
August 23, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), York Barbell Company Inc., of York, Pa., is voluntarily recalling about 3,300 Olympic Weightlifting Bars. Due to a defect in the sleeve mechanism, the bar can break under the pressure of significant weight, which could injure consumers and by-standers.
Blount International Inc. Recalls Replacement Blades for Use with Snapper Riding Lawnmowers Due to Laceration Hazard
August 23, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Blount International Inc., of Kansas City, Mo., is voluntarily recalling about 94,000 Oregon® and Silver Streak® Replacement Snapper Lawnmower Blades. When the lawnmower is operated, the replacement blade can crack and pieces can break away, posing a serious laceration hazard to consumers and bystanders.
Lens Solution Caused Eye Infections, Report Says
August 22, 2006
Federal disease control experts and leading eye doctors have formally concluded that Bausch & Lomb's ReNu with MoistureLoc was the only contact lens solution contributing to an outbreak of potentially blinding fungal eye infections earlier this year. But the researchers' report, to be published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association, says it remains unclear how the product caused the problems. And an accompanying commentary by two academic researchers, meanwhile, argues that further study is needed to gauge the safety profile of all the various brands of 'multipurpose' lens-care solutions on the market that, like MoistureLoc, are used for cleaning, storing and moistening soft contact lenses.
Accutane Linked Heart, Liver Woes
August 22, 2006
Accutane, the powerful acne drug already known to cause birth defects, seems to raise the risk for potential heart and liver problems more than doctors had expected, according to a new study. The findings came from lab tests on 13,772 patients taking the popular acne drug and underscore the need to closely monitor people taking isotretinoin, which is sold as Accutane and in three generic versions. Abnormal results for cholesterol and liver function were more common than expected.
F.D.A. Strengthens Warnings on Stimulants
August 22, 2006
Federal drug regulators have ordered that strong warnings be put on the labels of stimulants like Ritalin to caution against their use in adults or children with heart problems and to alert doctors that the drugs cause one child in a thousand to experience hallucinations. The new warnings are not as strong as those approved in February by an advisory committee for the Food and Drug Administration, but they significantly strengthen the risk information already on the drugs. 'We're not trying to scare people out of using these drugs,' said Dr. Robert J. Temple, director of the Office of Medical Policy at the drug agency. 'Still, I would be extremely reluctant to put people with heart failure on one of these drugs.'
Spin Master Radio-Controlled Toy Airplanes Sold Exclusively at Toys R Us Recalled for Burn Hazard
August 22, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Spin Master Toys, of Toronto, Canada, is voluntarily recalling about 7,500 Air Hogs RC Skywinder Radio-Controlled Airplanes. The rechargeable battery pack inside the toy airplane can overheat posing a burn hazard.
School Specialty Publishing Recalls Children’s Science Kits for Thermal Burn Hazard
August 22, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), School Specialty Publishing, of Columbus, Ohio, is voluntarily recalling about 43,000 "Ideal" and "Brighter Child" Brand Science Kits. The battery case in the science kit can overheat, posing a thermal burn hazard.
Carmakers Stall Roof Rules
August 21, 2006
Last year, federal safety officials proposed strengthening a 35-year-old vehicle roof strength standard after studying the contentious issue for more than a decade. Safety advocates immediately criticized the new proposal as toothless and designed more to protect automakers from new cost burdens than American motorists from crushed roofs in rollovers. But at the same time, automakers both foreign and domestic have been quietly lobbying the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to loosen the proposed rules, exempt some vehicles and change testing procedures. The haggling threatens to further delay a meaningful update of roof strength regulations, which have remained unchanged for more than three decades while virtually every other major vehicle safety rule has been updated, often several times. 'It's very sad to see the very slow reaction to the issue of occupant protection,' Sean Kane, president of Safety Research and Strategies Inc., said Sunday. 'Is this the best we can do after 35 years?'
What'll It Cost? Insurers Don't Have to Say
August 20, 2006
When Margaret Zilm needed cataract surgery, she wanted to know what it would cost. Her medical policy has a $5,000 deductible, and her money was on the line. 'I thought I should figure out the impact on my budget,' said Zilm of Kansas City, Mo. But one eye doctor's office told Zilm it had no idea what her insurance company would pay. The insurer wouldn't give out the information. And an official at Missouri's Department of Insurance said such figures were confidential under medical providers' contracts with insurers. 'I felt like a criminal for even asking,' Zilm said. Zilm's experience pinpoints a growing problem. Health insurers are aggressively marketing medical policies with high deductibles - the amount people pay before coverage kicks in. Many experts contend these products will motivate Americans to shop for medical care, as they do for cars or computers. But basic data about what services cost generally aren't available.
Federal Judge Rules Tobacco Firms Deceived Smokers and Violated Racketeering Laws
August 18, 2006
A federal judge ruled Thursday that the nation's top cigarette makers violated racketeering laws, deceiving the public for years about the health hazards of smoking, but said she couldn't order them to pay the billions of dollars the government had sought. Judge Gladys Kessler of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia did order the companies to publish in newspapers and on their Web sites 'corrective statements' on the adverse health effects and addictiveness of smoking and nicotine. She also ordered tobacco companies to stop labeling cigarettes as 'low tar,' 'light,' 'ultra light' or 'mild,' since such cigarettes have been found to be no safer than others because of how people smoke them.
Target Recalls Scooters – Various Breaking Parts Present Fall Hazard
August 17, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Target, of Minneapolis, Minn., is voluntarily recalling about 185,000 Scooters. The handlebars, wheels and wheel brakes can break and detach, causing the rider to lose control, fall and possibly suffer injuries. SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
5-Gallon Zep-Brand Cleaner, Floor Stripper Sold at Home Depot Recalled, Containers Crack and Leak Corrosive Liquids
August 17, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Acuity Specialty Products Group Inc., a subsidiary of Acuity Brands Inc., of Atlanta, Ga., is voluntarily recalling about 6,800 5-gallon sizes of "Zep Industrial Purple Cleaner & Degreaser," and "Zep Heavy Duty Floor Stripper". 5-gallon plastic pails containing the cleaning products can unexpectedly crack and leak from the base, posing a risk to consumer due to the corrosive nature of these products.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Lead Poisoning Hazard Prompts Recall of Fun Express Children’s Toys Given Away at Libraries
August 17, 2006
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Fun Express Inc., a subsidiary of Oriental Trading Company Inc., of Omaha, Neb., is voluntarily recalling about 340,000 toys. The paint on the bendable toys contains excessive levels of lead, which is banned under federal law. Lead is toxic and if ingested by young children can cause adverse health effects. SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
Quiksilver Recalls Children’s Lounge Pants Due to Burn Hazard
August 9, 2006
The recalled loungewear was sold in girls and boys sizes 7 through 14 in plaid, camouflage, floral and heart print patterns with elastic or drawstring waistbands. Girls’ items are labeled “ROXY GIRL” and boys’ items are labeled “QUIKSILVER”. For specific information on which models are included in this recall, consumers should contact the firm. These lounge pants fail to meet the children’s sleepwear flammability standards, posing a risk of burn injury to children, due to the possible ignition of the garment. These garments were not labeled or marketed as sleepwear, but because they are children’s loungewear, they must meet the children’s sleepwear flammability standards.
SOURCE: US Product Safety Commission
J.C. Penney Recalls Lamps For Fire Hazard
August 9, 2006
The recalled lamps have a four-way switch that allows the lamp to function as a moving light so that patterns revolve around the shade. The lamps can be used as a basic lamp or as a night light with glowing stripe or floral patterns. The lamp shade is plastic and the finish on the base of the lamp is brushed steel. The lamp’s electrical circuit board can spark and overheat due to an electrical problem, posing a fire hazard to consumers.
Study: Bad nursing home care is common
August 8, 2006
Not-for-profit nursing homes generally provide better care than those operated for profit, an analysis of state inspections for some 16,000 homes nationwide found.
Also, independent nursing homes tend to provide better care than those managed by companies that run numerous nursing homes.
Consumer Reports, which provides consumer tips, says that those
conclusions are based on its evaluation of recent state inspection
reports for the nursing homes. A grant from the Commonwealth Fund was
used to compile a list of the facilities in each state that rank in the
best or worst 10 percent on at least two indicators of quality.
Researchers reviewed the three most recent inspection reports for each
home.
SOURCE: The Houston Chronicle
ElectroPlasma Lamps Sold at Spencer Gifts Stores Recalled for Fire Hazard
August 8, 2006
The recall involves the Mars Lightning 7001 dome electroplasma lamp, which simulates lightning bolts inside. It has a glass dome glued to a black base. Writing under the base includes the SKU number of 00473421, “MARS LIGHTNING7001” and “LIGHTNING 2000.” Arcing between an object and the removable cover of the lamp can pose a fire hazard.
Number Of Wrong-Site Surgeries Increasing
August 4, 2006
More than 45 million Americans undergo major surgeries every year, and according to one study, an increasing number of them involve doctors operating on the wrong side of the body or on the wrong patients.
How could this happen?
Washington correspondent Carol Han investigated.
For this story, we didn't plan on coming to a Nashville hospital, but we wanted to take a road trip to introduce you to a lovely lady who's been going through a surgical nightmare. This trip had to be pushed back a couple of times because of medical complications. And this time was no different. Right before we left, Goldie Claude had another medical setback, and had to be rushed to this hospital.
SOURCE: KIRO TV
Ford Recalls 1.2 Million Trucks
August 4, 2006
Ford Motor Co. yesterday recalled 1.2 million more pickup trucks and
sport-utility vehicles for fires linked to a cruise-control switch that
caused 4.5 million vehicles to be recalled last year. The action
involves F-Series pickups, Explorer and Excursion SUVs, and E-Series
trucks and includes vehicles from 1994 through 2002 model years, the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on its Web site.
Ford spokeswoman Kristen Kinley said 190 fires have been reported for
those vehicles, with no injuries or accidents.
SOURCE: The Washington Post
Please Hold the Free Lunches
August 4, 2006
Doctors are deluding themselves when they say their medical judgment can’t be influenced by something as trivial as a deli sandwich. When the sandwiches are delivered en masse for the entire medical staff, courtesy of drug companies that are touting their wares while the doctors eat, the physicians are swallowing a lot more than ham-and-cheese on rye. Otherwise, the drug companies would not be offering their lunchtime spreads.
SOURCE: The New York Times
Chrysler Recalls 2002 to 2006 Jeep Libertys
August 3, 2006
DaimlerChrysler's Chrysler unit said it was recalling about 832,500
Jeep Liberty sport utility vehicles to fix a steering part. The front
suspension lower ball joints on 2002 to 2006 Liberty SUVs will be
replaced, the automaker said in a statement.
The Toro Company Expands Recall of Snowthrowers Posing Fire Hazard
August 3, 2006
This recall is an expansion of an earlier recall announced in March 2003. This recall includes 2001 Toro Snow Commander snowthrowers with model number 38600 (serial numbers between 210000001 and 210999999) and model number 38602 (serial numbers between 210000001 and 210999999). The model and serial numbers are located on the rear of the axle plate between the wheels. The plastic fuel tank can crack and leak gasoline, posing a risk of fire and injury.
Medication Errors Harming Millions, Report Says
July 21, 2006
At least 1.5 million Americans are sickened, injured or killed each year by errors in prescribing, dispensing and taking medications, the influential Institute of Medicine concluded in a major report released yesterday.
Mistakes in giving drugs are so prevalent in hospitals that, on average, a patient will be subjected to a medication error each day he or she occupies a hospital bed, the report by a panel of experts said.
SOURCE: Washington Post
The Law Offices of Frank L. Branson, P.C. does not offer any guarantee of case results. Past success in litigation does not guarantee success in any new or future lawsuit. Our web site describes some of the cases that the attorneys of Law Offices of Frank L. Branson, P.C. have worked on in the past. Our description of those cases is summary in nature. You should be aware that the results obtained in each of the cases we have worked on was dependent on the particular facts of each case. The results of other cases will differ based on the different facts involved.
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