Dow Chemical cleared in breast implant suit

Abstract

A Texas state court judge has reversed a jury verdict that found Dow Chemical partially liable for injuries a woman blamed on her silicone breast implants (C&EN, Feb. 27, page 7). The decision may make it more difficult to bring such suits against Dow Chemical. Under Judge Michael Schneider's decision, plaintiff Gladys Laas will collect a $5.2 million award solely from codefendant Dow Corning, a 50-50 joint venture of Dow Chemical and glassmaker Corning. Dow Corning says it will appeal the jury's verdict and the judge's reaffirmation of its liability. In its Feb. 15 verdict, the Harris County district court jury in Houston determined that Dow Chemical lent substantial encouragement and assistance [to Dow Corning] in marketing silicone breast implants using materials that had not first been adequately tested. The jury decided Dow Chemical should be liable for 20% of the award, or $1 million. Dow Corning made Laas's implants. Dow Chemical participated in early ...