For many years, talcum powder has been marketed as a feminine hygiene product that can keep women dry and comfortable throughout the day. However, many women may not have known that using talcum powder for feminine hygiene increased their risk of developing ovarian cancer.
The talc from the powder can enter a woman’s vagina and become lodged in the wall or lining of the ovaries. Over time, a buildup of talc can result in ovarian cancer.
Researchers have published studies on talcum powder’s link to ovarian cancer for more than four decades.
The most recent study from March 2016 found that women who used talcum powder for feminine hygiene had a 33 percent higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Another study from 1982 found that women who used talcum powder for feminine hygiene during ovulation were 92 percent more likely to develop ovarian cancer.
Despite these studies, companies like Johnson & Johnson have continued to market and sell products containing talcum powder.
However, victims and their families have fought back and exercised their legal rights. In St. Louis alone, approximately 1,800 lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson for failing to warn consumers of the risk of developing cancer after using its Baby Powder and Shower to Shower products.
The lawsuits allege that Johnson & Johnson knew about the cancer threat but did not warn consumers because it feared a decrease in sales of its talcum powder products.
Two of these lawsuits were resolved earlier this year, with plaintiffs in one case being awarded $72 million in damages and plaintiffs in the other case being awarded $55 million. Earlier this month, the $55 million award was upheld despite appeals from Johnson & Johnson.
If you or a loved one contracted ovarian cancer after using a talcum powder product, a licensed Fort Worth injury attorney can help to determine if you have legal recourse available. Contact the talcum powder lawyers at Anderson & Cummings for a free legal consultation.
Call us today at (817) 920-9000 or chat live with a representative.