Why Do So Many Women File Talcum Powder Lawsuits?

There are many uses for talcum powder and for a long time, people assumed that talcum products were safe to use. However, over the last few years, a number of people, especially women, have filed lawsuits against the manufacturers of various talcum powder products. Our mass tort lawyers are seeking compensation for individuals across the country who have been diagnosed with one of these illnesses after significant exposure to talcum powder.

Typically, these lawsuits allege that companies like Johnson & Johnson failed to warn consumers that using talc increases the risk of developing ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. The latter is a cancer that starts in the mesothelium tissue that lines the lungs, heart, stomach, and other organs. If you’ve been diagnosed with one of these illnesses and you think it’s due to your use of talcum powder, you should seek legal advice.

What Is Talcum Powder?

Talc is a clay mineral that is made up of hydrated magnesium silicate. It is the main ingredient in baby powder and similar personal hygiene products targeted at adults. Talcum powder is widely used to keep the skin dry and absorb bad odors. People apply it directly to the skin or sprinkle it on underwear, sanitary pads, and diapers. Popular powders include Johnson’s Baby Powder, Shower to Shower, and Baby Magic Baby Powder.

The Dangers Associated With Talcum Powder

Previous and ongoing lawsuits claim that the companies that manufacture talcum powder have known for more than 40 years that the use of their products was linked to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. However, it is alleged that the manufacturers intentionally failed to warn people that the powder could cause cancer if it entered the lungs or vagina.

Some studies show a link between the risk of ovarian cancer and the use of powder on the genitals. There is debate over whether the likelihood of cancer increases the more a woman uses talcum powder. It is unclear exactly how powder causes cancer. However, some researchers hypothesize that talc particles go up through the uterus to the fallopian tubes and ovaries and cause chronic inflammation. It is also possible that talcum powder may suppress some of the antibodies that would typically protect against cancer.

Talcum powder also has been linked to a variety of respiratory issues including mesothelioma.

This is because some of the particles go airborne during use. Some talcum products may contain asbestos which is a known carcinogen. Researchers have also found that talc is chemically similar to asbestos which is also a silicate mineral. When these minerals are ingested, they can cause irritation. This may lead to chronic inflammation and subsequently, the formation of cancerous tumors.

Cases Which Have Already Been Settled

People have already started to receive compensation for the harm allegedly caused by Johnson & Johnson talcum powder. For example, in 2018, a St. Louis jury awarded $4.6 billion to 22 women who developed ovarian cancer. Meanwhile, in 2019, a California jury awarded Teresa Leavitt $30 million after she was diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Most recently, in October 2020, Johnson & Johnson agreed to pay out $100 million after it settled more than 1,000 lawsuits. However, the company maintained that its talcum powder was safe and didn’t cause cancer.

Is It Too Late for Me to File a Lawsuit?

If you’ve used talcum powder regularly over an extended period and you’ve been diagnosed with ovarian cancer or mesothelioma, you may have grounds for filing a lawsuit. However, you will need to do so within the statute of limitations for your state. Even though many cases have already been settled, many are ongoing and you may still be able to claim compensation.

It’s important that you talk to an experienced mass tort lawyer to find out if you have a strong case. In some situations, joining a class action lawsuit is more beneficial than trying to go up against a big company on your own.

Contact the Class Action Lawyer Coalition Today!

Cancer is often debilitating and life is never the same for affected individuals and their families. If you’ve been thinking about going after a manufacturer of talcum powder following your diagnosis, don’t delay in contacting our team of experienced attorneys. If you wait too late, you may not be able to claim damages.

You have nothing to lose by scheduling a consultation with a lawyer since we don’t charge any fees upfront. Even if we take your case, you won’t have to pay until you receive compensation for your losses. We handle cases from around the country and we’d be happy to inform you about your option. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.