Women have been using talcum powder for feminine hygiene for decades. For years there have been suspicions in the medical industry using talcum powder is related to the development of ovarian cancer.
“Talc” is a mineral that the body has difficulty removing. Thus, talc fibers can remain in the body for decades. Talc powder causes inflammation, leading to the development of tumors. This is how researchers believe talc can lead to ovarian cancer.
The use of talcum powder on the genitals is considered a risk factor for ovarian cancer according to The National Cancer Institute and the American Cancer Society and therefore should be addressed with the help of a product liability attorney. By enlisting the services of a Chesterfield talcum powder claims lawyer, you could improve your chances of a positive resolution.
Johnson & Johnson is facing hundreds of lawsuits because of their refusal to label these products with warnings about ovarian cancer
The first study linking the use of talcum powder to ovarian cancer was conducted in 1971 when researchers found that 75% of the ovarian cancer tumors contained talc particles. A decade later, a Harvard University researcher found a 30% increase in ovarian cancer in women who used talcum powder products frequently. A 1997 internal memo shows that Johnson & Johnson, manufacturer of Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower body powder, knew of the potential risk but believed the risk was too low to justify warnings or discontinue marketing their products.
Despite the original findings and subsequent studies that have supported the original research, talc mining companies and Johnson & Johnson continue to argue against the connection citing insufficient evidence. The company has also managed to keep its product on the market without a warning for nearly half a century after the original discovery.
Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against talcum powder manufacturers like Johnson & Johnson. Juries have awarded nearly $5 billion to plaintiffs but about 9,000 lawsuits have yet to be decided.
Dr. Daniel Cramer, expert in talcum-related cancer research, testified on behalf of the plaintiff and suggested talc has been the cause of a number of ovarian cancers throughout the years.
During the course of the trial, a Johnson & Johnson attorney confessed the company knew about the link between talcum powder and cancer, yet neglected to warn consumers of the danger.
A number of lawsuits have resulted in jury awards against Johnson & Johnson.
Talcum powder cancer lawsuits are just the most recent in a long list of product liability lawsuits brought against Johnson & Johnson
In past medical injury lawsuits, plaintiffs have received compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, lost wages, and punitive damages.