You may have noticed the numerous recalls and other warnings of unsafe products that have made their way into American homes. The increased number of harmful products that make their way onto the market is not only shocking, but it's downright scary. These products cover various product categories including children's toys and common household products. They can be found in some of the nation's largest retailers such as Wal-mart, Macy's, Bed Bath & Beyond, CVS, and Home Depot. When it comes to product recalls, the numbers tell it all. From the year 2004 to 2007, the total number of recalls has risen from an average of 277 to 387. Recalls due to high levels of lead have seen the most dramatic changes. In 2004, there were 5 recorded recalls for high lead levels and that jumped to 100 recalls by 2007.



Many of these recalls can be attributed to inadequate testing of products and loose monitoring of imported products. Chinese-made products have caused many recalls in the United States. Congress has now begun to take the steps to more closely monitor the products that are being imported into the country. The Senate Commerce Committee recently approved the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Reform Act. This act will allow the CPSC to thoroughly investigate the problems that have lead to such high numbers of recalls. While businesses worry that this act will stifle the import of products into the U.S., many others recognize the need for improved monitoring of products that enter the country.

The high level of lead found in many of the recalled products can potentially cause cancer. Asbestos in products is also another concern of the CPSC. Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, Mesothelioma, and Asbestosis. The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) recently released a report of everyday household products containing asbestos. The study revealed the presence of asbestos in everyday household items, including children's toys. The ADAO has spent over $165,000 in government-certified lab tests in order to bring the serious scale of this problem to the attention of government officials. Clearly, the Consumer Product Safety Commission Reform Act is a response to the growing mound of evidence gathered by organizations like the ADAO.

Consumers that are suffering from diseases caused by unsafe products should consult a lawyer to understand their legal options. Everyone has the reasonable right to safe products and, although Congress continues to work to control the problem, many lives have been devastated by these unsafe products.