Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Lawsuit Overview

Johnson & Johnson (J&J) faces over 90,000 lawsuits in the United States alleging that its talc-based baby powder, including Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower, caused cancers, primarily ovarian cancer and mesothelioma, due to asbestos contamination. The primary allegations assert that J&J knew about potential asbestos in its talc since the 1950s but failed to warn consumers or regulators, prioritizing profits over safety. As of April 2025, the multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2738) in New Jersey federal court includes 58,206 pending cases, with additional claims in state courts and the UK (3,500 claimants).

Latest Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Lawsuit Updates

Baby powder ovarian cancer lawsuits

refer to legal cases where individuals allege that their use of Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder led to the development of ovarian cancer.

April 1, 2025 – Reuters reports that a federal judge has rejected Johnson & Johnson’s $10 billion talc settlement plan, stating the company’s attempt to offload liability through bankruptcy lacked good faith, thereby reviving tens of thousands of active claims [1].

June 11, 2024 – CBS News confirms that Johnson & Johnson’s attempt to settle over 50,000 talc-related lawsuits through bankruptcy was rejected in court, marking a major win for plaintiffs who allege the baby powder caused deadly cancers.

August 11, 2020 – As The New York Times reports, Johnson & Johnson’s global phase-out of talc-based baby powder follows a flood of lawsuits alleging the product caused cancer, despite the company’s continued denial of liability.

FDA Reports and Statistics

As of April 2025, over 90,000 legal claims have been filed against Johnson & Johnson in the United States, with 58,206 pending in the multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2738) in New Jersey federal court, alleging that talc-based products, primarily Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower, caused ovarian cancer or mesothelioma due to asbestos contamination. Over 50 studies since the 1960s have investigated the link between perineal talc use and ovarian cancer, with a May 2024 Journal of Clinical Oncology study finding a significant association, and the World Health Organization’s IARC classifying talc as “probably carcinogenic” in July 2024. J&J proposed an $8.9 billion settlement in April 2023 through a subsidiary bankruptcy (LTL Management) to resolve all current and future talc claims, but it was rejected by a bankruptcy court. Subsequent proposals, including a $6.475 billion offer in May 2024 and a $10 billion plan in February 2025, were also rejected, with no comprehensive settlement reached as of April 2025.

Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Injuries & Side Effects

Users of Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder have reported various adverse health effects, ranging from mild irritation to serious conditions like cancer.

• Cancer Concerns: Ovarian cancer and mesothelioma linked to asbestos contamination
• Respiratory Issues: Breathing difficulties, inflammation, and respiratory infections
• Skin Problems: Irritation and allergic reactions
• Eye Complications: Inflammation and irritation
• Infections: Genital and urinary tract infections [2]

Do You Qualify for a Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder lawsuit if:

• You used Johnson & Johnson talc-based Baby Powder regularly
• You’ve been diagnosed with ovarian cancer or mesothelioma
• Your diagnosis came after prolonged use of the product
• You can provide medical documentation linking your condition to talcum powder use

Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma or ovarian cancer after using talc-based products have filed product liability lawsuits against those potentially responsible.

Evidence Required for a Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Lawsuit

To prove your case against Johnson & Johnson, you’ll need:

• Medical records confirming your cancer diagnosis
• Evidence of long-term use of Johnson & Johnson talcum powder products
• Expert testimony linking the product use to your cancer
• Documentation of proper product usage

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder-related illnesses may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses related to cancer treatment
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Punitive damages against Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Recall Information

In 2019, Johnson & Johnson issued a recall for their Baby Powder after FDA testing detected asbestos contamination in some samples. Following this recall and mounting legal pressure, the company announced in May 2020 that they would stop selling talc-based Johnson’s Baby Powder in North America. By 2023, Johnson & Johnson plans to discontinue the use of talc globally in their baby powder, transitioning to a cornstarch-based formulation instead [3].

“While asbestos exposure doesn’t always pose a health danger, depending on how much of it you come in contact with, you could be at risk for conditions like asbestosis (a scarring of the lungs), lung cancer, and mesothelioma.”
– Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Statute of Limitations for Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing a Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder lawsuit varies by state but generally ranges from 1-6 years from the date of diagnosis or discovery that talcum powder may have caused your illness. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame, as waiting too long could forfeit your right to compensation.

Related Articles:

• San Diego Talcum Powder Attorneys
• California Baby Powder Lawsuit
• Statute of Limitations to File a Talcum Powder Lawsuit

FAQs

1. How much was the Johnson and Johnson talcum powder lawsuit payout?

Johnson & Johnson has proposed an $8.9 billion settlement to resolve talcum powder lawsuits. Individual payouts vary according to the severity of the claimant’s illness and specific case details.

2. What is talcum powder and why is it potentially dangerous?

Talcum powder is a mineral composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen used in various cosmetic and personal care products. It’s potentially dangerous because natural talc deposits can contain asbestos, a known carcinogen, and studies have suggested a possible link between talcum powder use and ovarian cancer [4].

3. How can individuals prove that Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder caused their cancer?

To prove causation, plaintiffs typically need to present medical records diagnosing their cancer, evidence of long-term use of Johnson & Johnson talcum powder products, and expert testimony linking the product use to the development of their cancer.

4. Are there any class action lawsuits related to Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder?

Yes, there are class action and multidistrict litigations (MDLs) involving multiple plaintiffs who have experienced similar health issues due to Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder. Joining these cases can provide collective legal strength and shared resources.

5. What was in Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder that allegedly caused cancer?

The main concern is asbestos contamination in the talc used in Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder. Asbestos is a known carcinogen that can cause mesothelioma and is suspected to contribute to ovarian cancer when used in the genital area.

6. Has Johnson & Johnson admitted that their talcum powder causes cancer?

No, Johnson & Johnson has not admitted that their talcum powder causes cancer. Despite agreeing to settlements, the company continues to maintain that their product is safe and does not contain asbestos.

7. How long does it take to settle a talcum powder lawsuit?

The time to settle a talcum powder lawsuit varies greatly depending on individual case factors, but many cases take several years from filing to resolution, especially in complex mass tort situations like the Johnson & Johnson litigation.

8. How are settlement amounts determined in talcum powder cases?

The average settlement amount in a talcum powder lawsuit may vary greatly based on your case, however, court rulings have awarded billions of dollars in damages to claimants.

9. What should I do if I’ve used Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder but have no symptoms?

If you’ve used Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder but have no symptoms, you should inform your healthcare provider about your exposure history during regular check-ups and monitor for any changes in health. Currently, without symptoms or diagnosis, you likely don’t have grounds for legal action.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action against Johnson & Johnson for talcum powder-related injuries. Most states restrict filing to only a few years from the date of injury discovery, and these deadlines vary by location.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we offer:

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

If you or a loved one has developed ovarian cancer or mesothelioma after using Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder, contact us today to discuss your legal options and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.

References:

[1] https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/boards-policy-regulation/us-judge-rejects-jjs-10-billion-baby-powder-settlement-2025-04-01/ 

[2] https://www.drugdangers.com/talcum-powder/ 

[3] https://www.drugwatch.com/talcum-powder/recalls/ 

[4] https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/chemicals/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html