In February of 2016 Johnson and Johnson was found responsible to pay approximately $72 million (including punitive damages) to the family of a 52 year old woman after a jury found that her use of Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Johnson & Johnson’s Shower to Shower contributed to her death from ovarian cancer. Most recently another jury awarded another woman $55 million as she too developed ovarian cancer after using Johnson& Johnson talc powder products for decades for as part of her daily feminine hygiene. These verdicts and a growing number of lawsuits involving talc powder have many women concerned about their use of Johnson & Johnson talc products and their health. Attorney Brett Oppenheimer is currently investigating lawsuits involving talcum powder and can assist you with any questions you may have.
What is talc powder?
Talc is mined from a mineral called hydrous magnesium silicate. Many talc powders contained asbestos until 1970 . Since asbestos was known to be a cancer causing agent, talc powders are required by law to be free of asbestos.
What is the Concern over Talcum Powder?
Studies from as early as 1971 found that talc particles may be found in the ovarian tissue of ovarian cancer patients. There have been indications that talc particles that entering a woman’s body through the vagina caused inflammation in the pelvic area. Inflammation can increase endometrial cancer risks. Talc can survive in the endometrial tissue for many years before dissolving.
What is the Basis of Talcum Powder Law Suits?
Talc has been marketed to women as an effective agent for keeping skin dry, preventing rashes and as a vaginal deodorant. Despite studies showing a link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer, businesses such as Johnson & Johnson refused to issue warnings about the connection. The Johnson & Johnson products containing talc powder are Johnson’s Baby Powder and Johnson’s Shower to Shower. Lawyers for the company admitted that executives at Johnson & Johnson were aware of studies showing the link between talc and epithelial ovarian cancer. Currently there are over 1000 other lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson involving Baby Powder and Show to Shower.
If you or a loved one has suffered from the side effects of talc-powder, contact Brett Oppenheimer PLLC today.