Talcum Powder & Ovarian Cancer

Talcum powder has been a very popular product for decades. The most popular brands have been Johnson's Baby Powder and Shower to Shower, made by the giant pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson. People used talcum powder to keep skin dry and to prevent rashes. Women used it because it keeps the groin cool and comfortable, as well as free from odor.

But there has been increasing evidence that the use of talcum powder by women can increase the risk of ovarian cancer. The main ingredient in talcum powder is talc-a naturally occurring mineral composed of magnesium, silicon, oxygen and hydrogen. Talc is used because it absorbs moisture and reduces friction.

Medical research has found a link between the long-term use of talc-based powders and ovarian cancer. The first study that made the connection was published in 1971, and since then, the evidence linking talc and ovarian cancer has continued to mount. A 1982 study found that women who regularly used talcum powder were nearly twice as likely to develop ovarian cancer. And research has linked talcum powder to thousands of cases of ovarian cancer each year. One expert testified in court that an estimated 1500 women will die this year as a result of the use of talcum powder.

What have manufacturers done about this? Not much. The manufacturers of talcum powder have been aware of studies linking their products to ovarian cancer for decades now. But talcum powders still don't carry any warnings about that risk.

Gary Martin Hays & Associates can help

Women who developed ovarian cancer are turning to the legal system to hold Johnson & Johnson responsible for this negligence. In 2013, a jury found the company had failed to warn women about the risk of developing ovarian cancer when using talcum powders near their genitals. And in 2016, a court ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $72 million to the family of woman who had died from ovarian cancer after using Johnson's Baby Powder for many years.

There is also a class action lawsuit that has been filed against Johnson & Johnson.

If you or a loved one has developed ovarian cancer as a result of the use of talcum powder, call a product liability lawyer at Gary Martin Hays & Associates now to learn your legal options. We will aggressively protect your rights. You may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, lost future earnings, pain and suffering, loss of consortium and other damages.

We have the experience and the resources needed to fight large companies on your behalf. Call 1-800-898-HAYS today for a free consultation with one of our attorneys.