Baby Powder Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit | 2025 Update

Baby Powder Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit Overview

Thousands of talcum powder lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers like Johnson & Johnson, alleging that their talc-based products have caused ovarian cancer.

Studies have shown that talc use increases ovarian cancer risk by 30–60% [1].

Over 60,000 lawsuits specifically target Johnson & Johnson, claiming the company knew their products contained asbestos but failed to warn consumers.

Under a proposed agreement, J&J would pay current and future plaintiffs approximately $8.9 billion over 25 years to settle these claims.

What Is Talcum Powder?

Talcum powder is a soft, white powder made from talc, a naturally occurring mineral. It is also known as talc powder. Its primary use is to provide a dry and smooth sensation on the skin by absorbing moisture and reducing friction [2].

Talc-containing products include cosmetic products such as baby powder, adult body and facial powders, and various talc products.

Latest Talcum Powder Lawsuit Updates

• March 2025: Johnson & Johnson has proposed that their subsidiary would pay out an agreed settlement of $8.9 billion over 25 years to resolve all present and future claims related to Johnson & Johnson products containing talcum powder [1].
• July 2024: An appeals court revealed that LTL Management, J&J’s subsidiary, is not financially distressed and can pay the claims. The court dismissed the subsidiary’s bankruptcy filing that was intended to facilitate the settlement agreement [2].
• May 2020:  Johnson & Johnson discontinued North American sales of its talc-based baby powder [3].
• October 2019: Johnson & Johnson recalled 33,000 bottles of baby powder after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found trace amounts of asbestos [4].
• July 2018: A notable case resulted in a $4.7 billion verdict for 22 plaintiffs in St. Louis County, Missouri [5]. The Missouri Supreme Court later overturned the verdicts for two of the plaintiffs and reduced the total amount to $2 billion.

FDA Reports and Statistics

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings concerning talcum powder products and their potential health risks.

In 2019, FDA testing found trace amounts of asbestos in samples of Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder, leading to a voluntary recall of 33,000 bottles.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified talc as a possible carcinogen, further supporting the connection between talcum powder and cancer risk.

Baby Powder Injuries & Side Effects

The injuries and side effects of talcum powder use extend beyond ovarian cancer. Research has linked talcum powder use to mesothelioma and other health complications [6].

Additional health complications include:

• Respiratory issues
• Skin irritation
• Rashes

These risks highlight the importance of understanding the potential dangers of talcum powder and considering alternative products.

“A growing body of evidence suggests that using talcum powder (also called talc) in the genital area can increase a woman’s chances of developing ovarian cancer.”- Diana Zuckerman, Ph.D., Founder of National Center for Health Research.

Do You Qualify for a Talcum Powder Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a talcum powder lawsuit if:

• You used talcum powder products regularly for at least one year.
• You have been diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancer (the most common form linked to talc).
• Your diagnosis occurred within the past three years or within your state’s statute of limitations.
• You used the product for at least four years.
• You can provide medical documentation linking your cancer to talc exposure.

Evidence Required for a Talcum Powder Lawsuit

To successfully pursue a talcum powder lawsuit, you will need:

• Medical records confirming your cancer diagnosis.
• Documentation of your talcum powder use (receipts, product packaging).
• Testimony from medical experts establishing a connection between your talc use and cancer.
• Proof that the manufacturer knew of the risks but failed to warn consumers.

Damages You Can Recover

Successful talcum powder lawsuits may result in compensation for:

• Medical expenses related to cancer treatment.
• Lost wages due to inability to work.
• Pain and suffering from the illness and treatments.
• Punitive damages against the manufacturer.

How Much Is a Talcum Powder Lawsuit Case Settlement Worth?

A talcum powder lawsuit case settlement worth varies, with some cases resulting in significant compensation for plaintiffs.

Based on recent settlements and verdicts, the average payout for a talcum powder lawsuit can range from $100,000 to $2.1 billion.

Factors such as the severity of the illness, the strength of the evidence, and the defendant’s willingness to settle can impact the settlement amount.

As talcum powder lawsuits continue to evolve, potential plaintiffs should be aware of the potential value of their case and the factors that may influence the outcome.

While no two cases are identical, understanding the range of possible settlements can help plaintiffs make informed decisions about their legal options.

Talcum Powder Recall Information

2019 Recall:

• Date: October 2019 [7]
• Products: Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder
• Reason: FDA detection of asbestos contamination
• Units: 33,000 bottles

2020 Market Withdrawal:

Johnson & Johnson discontinued talc-based baby powder in North America.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified talc as a possible carcinogen, and the FDA has issued warnings concerning talcum powder products and their potential health risks [8].

Statute of Limitations for Talcum Powder Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a talcum powder lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1-6 years from the date of diagnosis.

It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

FAQs

1. Can I Join a Baby Powder Class Action Lawsuit?

You can join a baby powder class action lawsuit if you meet the eligibility criteria, including having a cancer diagnosis, frequently using talcum powder, and filing within the applicable statute of limitations.

2. How Long Will My Baby Powder Lawsuit Take?

A baby powder lawsuit typically takes anywhere from two to several years to be settled. Factors affecting duration include the number of plaintiffs, strength of evidence, and the defendant’s willingness to settle.

3. What Is The Average Payout For A Talcum Powder Lawsuit?

Based on recent settlements and verdicts, the average payout for a talcum powder lawsuit can range from $100,000 to $2.1 billion. The settlement amount depends on the severity of illness, strength of evidence, and other case-specific factors.

4. What Is Talcum Powder?

Talcum powder is a soft, white powder made from talc, a naturally occurring mineral. It’s primarily used to provide a dry and smooth sensation on the skin by absorbing moisture and reducing friction.

5. Does Talcum Powder Contain Asbestos?

Not all talcum powder contains asbestos. However, asbestos, a known carcinogen, has been found in some talcum powder products due to natural co-occurrence in mineral deposits, raising significant health concerns.

6. Who Can I Sue For Talcum Powder Complications?

You can sue manufacturers (primarily Johnson & Johnson), distributors, and retailers of talc-based products for complications related to talcum powder use.

7. What Types Of Talc Lawsuits Are People Filing?

People are filing product liability, negligence, and failure to warn lawsuits. Most are individual cases, though some have been consolidated into class action lawsuits or Multi-District Litigation (MDL).

Get a Free Baby Powder Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for talcum powder-related cancer. Most states allow only 1-3 years from the date of diagnosis to file a claim, making it crucial to act quickly.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm, we offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for our services
• Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation for you

Don’t delay – your health and financial future may depend on timely legal action.

References:

1. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/31/business/johnson-johnson-bankruptcy-talc.html
2. https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/ca3/23-2972/23-2972-2024-07-25.html
3. https://www.jnj.com/our-company/johnson-johnson-consumer-health-announces-discontinuation-of-talc-based-johnsons-baby-powder-in-u-s-and-canada
4. https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/baby-powder-manufacturer-voluntarily-recalls-product-asbesto
5. https://www.bbc.com/news/business-44816805
6. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/chemicals/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html
7. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/baby-powder-manufacturer-voluntarily-recalls-products-asbestos
8. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/talc