Johnson & Johnson talcum powder, a favorite intimate product of women everywhere, has been linked to ovarian cancer, and people are sueing. Now, Johnson & Johnson is facing 1,200 lawsuits (as of May 4, 2016) and has already lost $127 million in the two resolved cases.
Johnson & Johnson has been charged with knowing for over 40 years that the talc in their baby powder caused cancer. In 1971, The British Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology published a study that dusting the female genitals with talcum powder may lead to the talc getting in the ovaries and causing cancer. The journal also published that the majority of ovarian tumors had talc particles deeply embedded in them. In 2016, this 1971 study held true when talc was found in Gloria Ristesund’s cancerous ovarian tissue after a hysterectomy. Gloria Ristesund sued Johnson & Johnson and won $55 million.
Johnson & Johnson still claims that the powder is safe and has stated “(The verdict) goes against 30 years of studies by medical experts around the world that continue to support the safety of cosmetic talc,” but many of the studies that support this statement have been funded by Johnson & Johnson themselves. Data for the issue is all over the place, so more research needs to be done before coming to an absolute conclusion, but Johnson & Johnson seems to be fighting a losing battle.
Although scientists aren’t absolutely sure if talcum powder is causing ovarian cancer yet, it is still a bad idea for women to use it on or near their genitals. Two women have already won cases against Johnson & Johnson, and there seems to be hope for more longtime talcum powder users to win their cases.
Moreover, safer alternatives to talcum powder have existed for years. For example, Gold Bond baby powder uses cornstarch instead of talcum powder. Therefore, there is no need to take the risks associated with talcum powder.
If you or a loved one believe that an ovarian cancer diagnosis is related to use of talcum powder, call us immediately so we can begin a confidential and free evaluation.