There is mounting scientific evidence that long-term use of talcum powder for personal hygiene increases the risk of developing ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. On Tuesday, May 19th, 2023, Johnson & Johnson officially discontinued sales of talc-based baby powders in North America. In July of 2024, the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer reclassified Talc as a 2A probable human carcinogen. The Group 2A classification is the second highest level of certainty that a substance can cause cancer. According to the IARC, “There were numerous studies that consistently showed an increase in the incidence of ovarian cancer in humans self-reporting the use of body powder in the perineal region. Since it was previously considered a 2B “Possible Carcinogen”, this is a big step in the right direction for victims of talc-based products.
On August 11, 2023, a New Jersey bankruptcy judge entered the dismissal of the second Chapter 11 bankruptcy sought by Johnson & Johnson’s talc unit following the company’s most recent attempt to use a controversial “Texas two-step” strategy. By twice seeking bankruptcy protection, Johnson & Johnson, one of the wealthiest companies in the world, sought to force victims who used talcum products to resolve their claims for pennies on the dollar in bankruptcy court, thereby depriving them of their right to a jury trial. If successful, the two-step strategy would have allowed the company to create a new under-funded subsidiary to assume liability for all existing lawsuits and then declare that entity bankrupt. This was a major win for talcum powder users afflicted with ovarian cancer or mesothelioma as, if successful; the ploy would have allowed the company to escape liability even though it has known the dangers of using talcum powder products for decades.
Does Talcum Powder Cause Ovarian Cancer?
Although manufacturers of talc products such as baby powder have long known the link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer, the companies chose not to warn consumers of the risks of using their products. In recent jury trials that resulted in multi-million-dollar verdicts, Johnson & Johnson was found liable for failing to warn of the dangers of its products. More information on the connection between talc and cancer can be found at the website of the International Society for Research on Cancer, www.iarc.fr.
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How Long Has It Been Known that Talc Powder Causes Cancer?
The first links between talcum powder and ovarian cancer can be traced back to 1971 when researchers in Britain identified talc particles in over a dozen ovarian tumors. Since that time, many studies and scientific journals have explored the relationship. However, recent studies in the past few years show a stronger relationship than previously suggested. In addition, it has been proven at trial that Johnson & Johnson’s talcum products may contain asbestos, another cancer-causing agent and that the company knew about the potential presence of asbestos in its talcum products but failed to warn consumers about the risks.
How High Is the Risk of Ovarian Cancer from Talcum Powder Use?
Studies on the relationship between talcum-based baby powder and ovarian cancers have been ongoing for some time. However, the most recent studies from prominent medical researchers now indicate that frequent use of talc powder can increase the risks of cancer by more than 30%. This link is much stronger and more concerning than what many have thought in the past.
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Are There Any Other Dangers Associated With Talcum Powder?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Current research indicates that talc-based products contaminated with asbestos and asbestiform materials have led to the development of mesothelioma. This form of cancer is classified as a fatal disease with a median survival time of less than one year from the first symptoms of the illness and no current known cure. Because talc mines are often marbled with asbestos in the earth, it is easy for the former to become contaminated during the mining process. As recently as October of 2019, the FDA has detected and called for the recall of Johnsons & Johnson’s baby powder contaminated with asbestos.
You may be entitled to collect damages if you have experienced any complications due to talcum powder product use. Fill out our free case evaluation form to see if you are eligible for a potential lawsuit. An experienced attorney at Morris Bart will assist you in the evaluation process. Initial consultations are FREE. Click here to see more about our office locations throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas. Call us at 1-800-537-8185 today.
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