Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer
Studies have shown that women who use talc-containing products as part of their feminine hygiene every day run a 30-60% chance of developing ovarian cancer.
The theory is based upon the notion that because talcum powder is made up of very fine particles it might be able to travel up the mucus membranes in the vaginal canal, create inflammation and eventually cancer. When applied to the genital region, talc may travel through the vagina, cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes. Microscopic particles of talcum powder are believed to travel all the way to the ovaries along a similar path to that of sperm traveling to fertilize eggs.
Doctors have found talc particles inside cancerous ovarian tissue, as well as in pelvic lymph nodes.
Not all types of ovarian cancer have a suspected link to use of talcum powder. The types of cancer that are believed to be caused by DAILY long term use of talcum powder are primarily invasive serous and epithelial ovarian cancer.
Brigham and Women’s Hospital obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Daniel Cramer testified in one of the court cases, that…
Johnson & Johnson Lawsuits
Over 16,800 lawsuits have been filed throughout the country against Johnson & Johnson as the manufacturer of the following talc-containing products:
- Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder
- Johnson & Johnson Shower to Shower
So far, in the cases that have made it to jury trial, Johnson & Johnson hasn’t fared so well. In St. Louis, a jury awarded a woman $70 million dollars. Two other cases resulted in substantial verdicts of $55 million and $72 million.
In 2018, Johnson & Johnson was faced with a $4.7 billion dollar verdict for 20 women out of St. Louis, Missouri.
In February of this year, a New Jersey court ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $750 million dollars in punitive damages to four plaintiffs claiming to have developed mesothelioma—a cancer in the lining of the lungs—not only because of the products, but because of Johnson & Johnson’s malicious attempts to keep the dangers of the products from becoming public knowledge.
One of the most damning pieces of evidence that came out in the jury trial of these cases was a written communication between Johnson & Johnson and the supplier of the talc. This document proved that Johnson & Johnson was aware of the dangers presented by the talc for over 30 years. Yet, Johnson & Johnson has not removed talc from its products and they are still being sold today.
Some of these products appear benign. In fact, Johnson’s Baby Powder is one of the most iconic and seemingly safe products we know. So, many have questioned how it took doctors, lawyers and patients to raise the safety of this product.
One reason is that cosmetic products do not have to undergo FDA review or approval. Cosmetic manufacturers do have a legal obligation to ensure that the products they sell are safe and properly labeled to warn of any known risks. However, it isn’t until the FDA receives complaints that it investigates and takes any action it deems appropriate to protect the public safety. Thus far, the FDA has not taken any action. However, the juries who have heard all of the evidence in these cases have strongly sided with the women who claimed the talcum powder caused their ovarian cancer.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and have a documented daily, long-term use of talcum powder, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Talcum Powder in the News
How Can We Help You?
If you or a loved one used a product containing talcum powder for daily use, please contact our team of experienced attorneys to evaluate your case.
At Van Wey, Metzler & Williams, we have more than 30 years of experience seeking justice for those who have been injured by doctors, hospitals, and the manufacturers of dangerous products. These cases can be long, complicated, and emotionally exhausting. Big name manufacturers like Johnson & Johnson put a powerful fight when faced with liability for what they’ve done.
Let Van Wey, Metzler & Williams face the battle while you and your loved ones recover from the horrific events you’ve been forced to endure. Lawsuits like these can get you compensation for your injuries including medical expenses, lost wages, and even funeral costs.
If you need a talcum powder attorney, we can help. Contact us today.
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