Ovarian Cancer and Talcum Powder Update

More than one thousand lawsuits have been filed by women who have suffered ovarian cancer as a result of using talcum powder on their genital area. Talc is a mineral found in personal care products, often in the form of powder, such as in Johnson & Johnson’s popular Baby Powder and Shower to Shower products. There is increasing evidence that talcum powder increases the risk of ovarian cancer in women who use the product for feminine hygiene. In a recently settled landmark case, investigators discovered company documents showing that Johnson & Johnson were made aware of the risks of talcum powder as early as 1982, and elected not to change the formula, inform the medical community, or even to warn consumers. It is estimated that as many as 10,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with ovarian cancer resulting from talcum powder each year.

Plaintiffs’ attorneys claim the manufacturers have known for more than 40 years there is a link between talc and ovarian cancer. However, these companies intentionally made the decision not to warn women that the powder could cause cancer by entering the vagina after being applied to the genital area or on sanitary napkins or condoms. The main talc products used for personal hygiene are: Johnson’s Baby Powder by Johnson & Johnson; Shower to Shower by Valeant Pharmaceuticals; and Baby Magic Baby Powder. The most serious potential side effect from the use of talcum powder by women is ovarian cancer, caused by the powder entering the ovaries through the vagina. According to the International Journal of Gynecological Cancer, frequent talcum powder use on the female genital area increases the risk of ovarian cancer between 30–60%. The more often a woman uses it on her genital area, the more likely she will experience ovarian cancer.

A Missouri jury recently awarded a California woman a $70 million verdict after finding that Johnson & Johnson was liable for the injuries she suffered as a result of using the company’s talcum powder products, according to the Alabama law firm who represents her.This is the third large verdict against Johnson & Johnson regarding its talc-containing products, which include Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower body powder for feminine hygiene. The first award earlier this year – $72 million – and another woman,  was awarded $55 million in a separate verdict.

If you or someone you know have developed ovarian cancer  after using baby powder or other talcum powder products, contact our firm to learn more about your legal options. You may be able to file a lawsuit against the company, and be compensated for your medical costs and pain and suffering. Call attorney Jamie Sheller at 1 800 883 2299.