Tens of thousands of users have filed a class-action lawsuit against Philips Respironics in Europe, including around 20,000 people from Germany. The lawsuit concerns serious issues with breathing devices that the company recalled three years ago.
The recall was prompted by the discovery of defective materials used in the devices, which could break down and enter users’ airways. Some devices were also found to contain potentially harmful chemicals.
According to NDR, the defect affected approximately 1.2 million people across Europe, making it one of the largest recalls in the history of medical equipment.
The class-action lawsuit was initiated by an Italian consumer rights group. If successful, those affected may receive compensation for the damage caused.
Philips claims that tests conducted on the devices found no significant health risks to patients.