For decades, talcum powder has been widely used in baby powder, cosmetics, and other products to absorb moisture and reduce chafing. However, recent court cases have led to the examination of internal company documents from Johnson & Johnson, indicating that since the 1970s, they have known that talcum powder can contain small amounts of asbestos, and that regular use of their products can cause ovarian cancer.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer or mesothelioma after long-term use of Johnson’s Baby Powder or other Johnson & Johnson products that contain talcum powder, you may have a legal claim. Let the experienced team at Duncan Firm pursue your product liability case and seek damages for your medical expenses.
In December 2018, separate investigations by The New York Times and Reuters discovered that Johnson & Johnson had known since at least 1971 that small amounts of asbestos were present in its talcum powder. Talcum powder is made primarily from the mineral talc, which is mined from underground. Formations of asbestos can occur naturally near raw, unrefined talc.
In addition, talc itself may be carcinogenic when used in the genital area. The human body does not break down talc, so it can travel through a woman’s reproductive system into her ovaries, irritating them and increasing the risk of cancer.
For almost fifty years, Johnson & Johnson anticipated litigation and sought to “re-engineer” the science around talcum powder and cancer. Internal company documents refer to a group of doctors known as “The Club” who were seen as loyal and willing to side with the company’s stance on talcum powder.
The pace of litigation against Johnson & Johnson over their use of talcum powder has increased dramatically in the past few years. Many of the cases have been mass torts involving more than one plantiff. In one trial, the company was ordered to pay $4.69 billion to 22 women who used Johnson’s Baby Powder and contracted ovarian cancer.
On May 19, 2020, after losing 15 jury trials over its use of talcum powder, Johnson & Johnson announced that it would stop selling Johnson’s Baby Powder in the United States and Canada. However, lawsuits are continuing, and the time to file litigation is now.
If you have used Johnson’s Baby Powder, or other products that contain talc like condoms, diaphragms, tampons, and vaginal deodorants, and have contracted ovarian cancer or mesothelioma, contact the team at Duncan Firm. We will pursue your case to the fullest possible extent.
