Breaking News
On May 19, 2020, Johnson & Johnson announced it is permanently discontinuing sales of its talc-based baby power in North America. Existing bottles on store shelves will continue to be sold until they run out. The company will continue to sell its talc-based products in other countries around the world but will no longer sell its talcum powder in the United States and Canada.
Talc-based products like baby powder have been marketed to women for decades as a feminine hygiene product. However, in recent years, numerous studies have linked this practice to an increased rate of ovarian cancer development. As the number of lawsuits against manufacturers increases, Baron & Budd is fighting on behalf of those affected and their loved ones.
If you, or a loved one, was diagnosed with this devastating form of cancer and made use of talcum powder for feminine hygiene purposes we may be able to help. To schedule a free consultation, please call us at (866) 313-4812 or contact us here online via our simple, confidential contact form.
What Is Talcum Powder
As the name suggests, the primary ingredient in talcum powder is talc. This is a substance comprised of oxygen, silicon, and magnesium. This combination produces a grey, beige or white powder that helps absorb excess moisture and prevents skin chafing, which is the reason that so many people use it to keep their skin dry and rash free.
The Research Is In
The fight against cancer is a long and difficult one that is ongoing to this day. Research efforts to discover what may contribute to the development of cancer is a vital part of that fight. In the case of ovarian cancer, which can be particularly aggressive but hard to diagnose in the earliest stages, many suspicious substances have been researched extensively, both in animals and humans.
Numerous studies have been conducted into a possible link between the use of talcum powder as a feminine hygiene product and ovarian cancer. An increasing body of research is establishing a causal link, including a prestigious Harvard Medical Study undertaken by Dr. Daniel Cramer over the course of more than thirty years which showed a 33% increase in overall risk of ovarian cancer with talc use. In addition, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, which is a part of the World Health Organization, now classifies the use of talcum powder in the genital area as a possible carcinogen.
Talcum Powder legal Action
There are now more than 12,000 lawsuits pending against Johnson & Johnson for talc-related injuries.
In July 2018, a Missouri jury ordered the company to pay $4.69 billion to 22 women who blamed the talc-based product for causing their ovarian cancer. Johnson & Johnson has appealed nearly all of the cases that have gone in the plaintiffs’ favor and have indicated they will continue to appeal.
How We May Be Able to Help
As research continues, mounting evidence suggests a link between an increased risk of ovarian cancer and the use of talc-based products for feminine hygiene purposes. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer after such long-term use, we may be able to help. To discuss your case, and possible legal recourses, we offer a free, confidential consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. To schedule an appointment, or to learn more, simply complete our online contact form or call us toll-free at (866) 313-4812.