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Is your daily routine putting your health at risk? Talcum powder, a widely used household product, has come under scrutiny amid lawsuits alleging a potential connection to cancer.
The growing number of talcum powder cancer lawsuits highlights ongoing trials, settlement discussions, and new evidence, especially in cases involving Johnson & Johnson.
In this article, we’ll explore the details of these lawsuits, review the emerging evidence, and provide vital information if you or a loved one may be impacted.
Read on to stay informed, safeguard your health, and learn about your legal options.
Table Of Contents
- ALERT: Major Talcum Powder Settlements & Updates
- Quick Summary:
- Talcum Powder Lawsuit Overview
- What’s the Problem with Talcum Powder?
- Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer Studies
- Ovarian Cancer Symptoms: Most Commonly Reported In Cases
- Talcum Powder Lawsuit Settlement Amounts and Recent Updates
- Recent Talcum Powder Settlements
- J&J Ordered to Pay $55 Million in 2nd Lawsuit
- J&J to Pay $72 Million in St. Louis Talcum Powder Lawsuit
- J&J Discontinues Talc Baby Powder Sales in U.S., Canada
- What Does Research Say About Talc and Cancer?
- Ovarian Cancer from Genital Talc Use
- MDL Proposed for Talcum Powder Litigation
- Illinois Woman Alleges Talcum Powder Caused Ovarian Cancer
- Baby Powder Cancer Lawsuit Filed in California
- J&J Seeks Dismissal of Talc Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit
- Immediate Steps for Talcum Powder Lawsuit
- FAQs
- Get a Free Talcum Powder Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
ALERT: Major Talcum Powder Settlements & Updates
- $8.9 Billion Global Settlement Fund Announced: Johnson & Johnson has proposed a settlement of $8.9 billion to resolve all cancer-related claims linked to its talcum powder products, which is expected to be paid out over 25 years.
- Recent $417 Million California Verdict: A jury awarded $260 million in a recent case involving a woman who developed mesothelioma after using J&J’s baby powder, highlighting the ongoing legal challenges faced by the company.
- 30,000+ Active Lawsuits: As of January 2025, over 62,000 lawsuits have been filed against companies that produced or sold talc products, with claims that these products contained asbestos and caused serious health issues such as mesothelioma and ovarian cancer.
- 20-30% Higher Cancer Risk Proven: Research from the National Institutes of Health has established a significant link between the use of talcum powder and an increased risk of ovarian cancer, particularly with frequent or long-term use.
Our lawyers are investigating potential lawsuits for individuals diagnosed with cancer (mesothelioma/ovarian cancer) after using talc powder products. Contact us for a consultation if you or a loved one has been affected.
Quick Summary:
- Over 30,000 talcum powder lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson, with plaintiffs alleging that talcum powder use caused ovarian cancer and mesothelioma.
- Plaintiffs argue that Johnson & Johnson failed to provide adequate warnings about the potential cancer risks associated with talcum powder products.
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Each year, about 3,000 mesothelioma cases are diagnosed in the U.S., with most linked to asbestos exposure, often from talc mining.
Talcum Powder Lawsuit Overview
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), cosmetic talc products are made from talc, a magnesium and silicon-based mineral that absorbs moisture and reduces friction.
These properties make talc useful to the personal care industry, which uses it in products such as talc-based baby powders, body powders, foot powders, and intimate hygiene products for women.
Recently, there have been numerous talc claims involving lawsuits alleging that talc products have caused cancer, specifically ovarian cancer and mesothelioma.
In recent decades, it has become customary for women to dust their private parts, underwear, and sanitary napkins with talc products, a practice associated with cleanliness and freshness.
The substance has also been used with diaphragm or birth control and was once found in certain brands of condoms.
What’s the Problem with Talcum Powder?
The problem with talcum powder is that it has been linked to serious health risks, including an increased risk of cancer.
More than 1,200 talcum powder lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson on behalf of women who allegedly developed cancer after using J&J Talc Powder and Shower to Shower body powder.
This ongoing talc litigation highlights the challenges faced by plaintiffs in obtaining compensation for health issues believed to be caused by these products, with recent trial outcomes and settlement proposals drawing significant attention.
While these products contain warnings against inhalation, they do not warn women about the cancer risks of external use.
Our lawyers are investigating allegations that J&J knew or should have known about the risks of baby powder for women when used externally.
According to the American Cancer Society research from 2022 [1], the World Health Organization and other health agencies have expressed concerns that perineal talc use may place women at an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer or mesothelioma [2].
With genital baby powder use, the particles can travel through the Fallopian tubes to the ovaries, causing irritation that could lead to ovarian cancer. It has been estimated that about 10% of ovarian cancer cases and deaths from the disease in the U.S. have been associated with baby powder.
Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer Studies
More than 2 dozen studies going back decades have identified links between the use of baby powder and cancer:
- 1982 – A case-controlled study published in the Journal Cancer [3] found that women who “regularly used talc-based baby powder either as a dusting powder on the perineum or on sanitary napkins” were 1.92 times (92%) more likely to develop ovary cancer.
- 1997 – A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology (PDF) found that “women with a history of perineal dusting with genital talc” were 1.6 times (60%) more likely to develop cancerous tumors.
- 2008 – According to the meta-study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health [4] pooled together more than 20 studies and found a 35% increase in the risk of ovarian cancer diagnosis in women who used talc powder.
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms: Most Commonly Reported In Cases
The following early symptoms of ovarian cancer diagnosis may be overlooked because they’re similar to other common illnesses and because they may come and go intermittently:
- Abdominal bloating, pressure, and pain
- Abnormal fullness after eating
- Difficulty eating
- Increased urination/urge to urinate
As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Constipation
- Back pain
- Menstrual irregularities
- Painful intercourse
Talcum Powder Lawsuit Settlement Amounts and Recent Updates
Talcum powder settlement amounts have varied widely depending on the specifics of each case, including the severity of the plaintiff’s illness, the evidence presented, and the jurisdiction in which the case was tried.
Some individual settlements have reached significant amounts, with certain plaintiffs receiving millions of dollars in compensation.
Recent settlements related to talcum powder lawsuits have highlighted the significant financial implications for manufacturers like Johnson & Johnson. Below is a comprehensive overview of recent settlement amounts and key developments in these cases.
Recent Talcum Powder Settlements
The ongoing litigation involving Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products has resulted in numerous settlements and verdicts, many highlighting serious allegations of negligence and misconduct. Below is a detailed and updated overview of major settlements and cases.
Latest Major Settlements and Verdicts:
$8.9 Billion Global Settlement (2024)
- Covering 60,000+ cases
- Increased from initial $2 billion offer
Individual Verdicts:
$4.7 Billion – St. Louis Circuit Court Verdict
- Awarded to 22 plaintiffs who alleged ovarian cancer from talc use, this landmark case included punitive damages reflecting J&J’s failure to warn consumers.
$417 Million – California Ovarian Cancer Case
- A Los Angeles jury awarded this record-breaking amount to a woman who developed ovarian cancer after decades of using J&J’s talc products.
- The award included $347 million in punitive damages, emphasizing the jury’s determination to penalize J&J for negligence [5].
$110 Million – 5th St. Louis Talc Cancer Lawsuit
- Lois Slemp, who used J&J talc for over 40 years, was awarded $110 million after her diagnosis with ovarian cancer.
- Imerys Talc America, J&J’s supplier, was also ordered to pay $50,000 for its role in providing contaminated talc.
$72 Million – Jackie Fox Talcum Powder Case
- Jackie Fox’s family received $72 million in damages after her ovarian cancer diagnosis linked to J&J’s talc products.
- Evidence presented included a 1997 internal memo acknowledging the risks of talcum powder.
$70 Million – Deborah Giannecchini Baby Powder Lawsuit
- Deborah Giannecchini, diagnosed with Stage IV ovarian cancer, was awarded $70 million after proving a direct link between her cancer and J&J’s talc.
$55 Million – Gloria Ristesund Talcum Powder Case
- Awarded to a Missouri woman who developed ovarian cancer after using J&J’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower talc for over 35 years.
$750 Million – New Jersey Mesothelioma Verdict
- Four plaintiffs collectively received this award after proving that J&J’s products caused their mesothelioma and/or ovarian cancer [6].
$37 Million – Stephen Lanzo III Mesothelioma Case
- A New Jersey jury awarded $37 million to Stephen Lanzo III, who developed mesothelioma after using J&J’s talcum powder.
- The verdict included an additional $80 million in punitive damages for recklessness on the part of J&J and its talc supplier.
$300 Million – Donna Olson Mesothelioma Case
- $120 Million – J&J was ordered to pay this amount in a lawsuit involving a Brooklyn woman who developed ovarian cancer due to asbestos in their talc products. Plaintiff Donna Olson testified that she used Johnson & Johnson’s Shower to Shower daily for over 50 years before developing advanced-stage mesothelioma [7].
- Donna Olson received this settlement after developing mesothelioma from decades of talc use, citing asbestos contamination in J&J products.
- $300 Million – Awarded to plaintiff Donna Olson, who blamed her development of mesothelioma on asbestos contained in Johnson’s Baby Powder [8].
$40 Million – Federal Jury in Los Angeles
- A woman who developed mesothelioma due to J&J’s talcum powder was awarded $40 million after nearly a week of deliberations [9].
$18 Million California Mesothelioma Verdict:
- The case of Phillip Depoian was included as a notable verdict, detailing his asbestos exposure and the significant role of talc suppliers like Whittaker Clark & Daniels.
- Depoian claims he was exposed to asbestos first as a child in talc products at his father’s barbershop and then again as an adult through his use of Old Spice, Clubman, King’s Men, and Mennen Shave Talc.
- The verdict is believed to be the most significant award on record for a lawsuit alleging mesothelioma from cosmetic talc exposure.
J&J Ordered to Pay $55 Million in 2nd Lawsuit
A St. Louis jury has ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $55 million to a woman who claims she developed ovarian cancer after using the company’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower talc powder for over 35 years.
The verdict is J&J’s second straight loss. It faces 1,200 additional complaints accusing it of failing to adequately warn consumers of the cancer risks associated with its talc-containing hygiene products.
J&J to Pay $72 Million in St. Louis Talcum Powder Lawsuit
A St. Louis jury has awarded $72 million in damages to the family of a woman who died from ovarian cancer after using baby powder and other talc-containing products made by Johnson & Johnson.
The St. Louis Circuit Court jury found that J&J failed to warn the public and conspired to hide the truth about the health risks of talc-based feminine hygiene products, awarding Jackie Fox’s family $10 million in actual damages and $62 million in punitive damages.
According to the lawsuit, Fox used Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder and Shower to Shower body powder for over 35 years, which contributed to her development of ovarian cancer.
The 62-year-old died last fall, about 2 ½ years after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Her son, Marvin Salter, became the plaintiff after her death.
Slater said his late mother, who was a foster parent, used J&J powder products for decades. “It just became second nature, like brushing your teeth,” Marvin Salter said. It’s a household name.
Talc is a naturally occurring magnesium, silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen mineral. It is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products to absorb moisture, prevent caking, and improve the product’s feel.
It’s important to note that in the past, talcum powder contained talc that had asbestos in it. Still, according to Eva Chalas, chief of Gynecologic Oncology and Director of Clinical Cancer Services at Winthrop-University Hospital, the modern powder does not.
Some cancer may have been from years ago potential contamination with asbestos when they made the talcum powder, Chalas said.
During the trial, Fox’s lawyers claimed the manufacturer knew of the potential health risks of using talcum powder.
A 1997 internal memo from a J&J medical consultant said “anybody who denies” the risk of using hygienic talc and ovarian cancer or mesothelioma is “denying the obvious in the face of all evidence to the contrary,” according to the Associated Press (AP).
The landmark decision marks the first talcum powder lawsuit to result in monetary compensation for the plaintiff.
Fox’s case was part of a broader claim in the city of St. Louis circuit court involving nearly 60 people.
Related Article: Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Lawsuit
J&J Discontinues Talc Baby Powder Sales in U.S., Canada
According to NBC News, Johnson & Johnson has announced plans to stop using talc-based baby powder in the U.S. and Canada [11].
J&J said the decision was made due to declining sales, insisting it stands by the safety of its talc-based products.
The company said that despite pulling the product, it will continue to “vigorously defend” its safety based on decades of scientific study.
Related Articles: Baby Powder Mesothelioma Lawsuit
What Does Research Say About Talc and Cancer?
Mesothelioma cancer is a disease that occurs in the lungs of talc miners and other people who are exposed to asbestos, according to the American Cancer Society.
2023 Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine Study
This study examined 33 patients diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, whose only known asbestos exposure was through cosmetic talcum powder.
The findings confirmed that asbestos fibers consistent with those found in talc were present in tissue samples from all six patients evaluated, reinforcing the link between talcum powder use and mesothelioma.
Epidemiological Analysis
A review of 166 individuals with mesothelioma indicated that for 122 participants, talcum powder was the only known source of asbestos exposure. This highlights a definitive connection between talcum powder use and the development of mesothelioma.
Regulatory Actions
- FDA Oversight: Talc products remain largely unregulated, as manufacturers are not required to register cosmetic products with the FDA. This lack of regulation raises concerns about the safety of talc products on store shelves.
- Legal Proceedings: Numerous lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson and other manufacturers regarding the safety of their talcum powder products, focusing on the failure to warn consumers about potential asbestos contamination.
Continued research and legal scrutiny are essential to ensure consumer safety and accountability among manufacturers.
Related: California Talcum Powder Lawsuit
Ovarian Cancer from Genital Talc Use
Decades of research have shown a strong correlation between talc use in the genital area and ovarian cancer.
Studies, including a meta-analysis of nearly 40 peer-reviewed medical reports, revealed that women using talc in this way have a 20% to 30% higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
A study led by Dr. Anne McTiernan from the University of Washington further highlighted that these women had a 22% to 31% higher chance of developing epithelial ovarian cancer compared to those who did not use talcum powder.
Mesothelioma from Asbestos-Contaminated Talc
Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer, has been conclusively linked to asbestos exposure. Talc products contaminated with asbestos fibers increase this risk significantly, particularly for miners and workers exposed during production or regular use.
According to the American Cancer Society, mesothelioma affects approximately 3,000 people annually in the U.S., often manifesting in the thin membranes around the lungs, heart, or abdomen.
Additional cases that may qualify for legal action:
Respiratory Illnesses from Talc Inhalation
Talc particles can irritate the lungs and respiratory system, leading to chronic conditions such as bronchitis or lung disease. Individuals with prolonged exposure, whether occupational or household, may qualify for claims.
Other Cancer Types Potentially Linked to Talc
While ovarian cancer and mesothelioma are the primary diseases associated with talcum powder, emerging evidence suggests connections to other cancers. Cancers such as lung cancer may be considered if there is sufficient evidence linking them to talc use.
MDL Proposed for Talcum Powder Litigation
A motion has been filed to consolidate all federally filed talcum powder lawsuits involving injuries allegedly caused by Johnson’s Baby Powder into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) for pretrial handling. This MDL is centralized in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, encompassing over 58,000 cases as of January 2025.
Current Status
The MDL actively manages many claims against Johnson & Johnson, with ongoing pretrial proceedings. The litigation alleges that Johnson & Johnson ignored studies linking its talcum powder products to ovarian cancer and failed to provide adequate warnings about these risks.
Timeline for Next Actions
- January 2025: Anticipated updates on settlement discussions and potential trial dates.
- February 2025: Expected hearings regarding the progress of the MDL and any motions filed by plaintiffs or defendants.
How to Join the MDL
Individuals who believe they have been harmed by using Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products can join the MDL by:
- Consulting with a qualified attorney: It is crucial to seek legal advice from lawyers experienced in product liability and mass tort cases.
- Filing a claim: Your attorney will assist in filing a claim within the MDL, ensuring all necessary documentation is submitted to the court.
- Meeting deadlines: Be aware of any deadlines the court sets for filing claims or joining the MDL.
The ongoing litigation highlights serious allegations that talc particles may travel into the vagina, becoming trapped in the ovaries, leading to chronic inflammation and potentially cancerous cell development. As this case progresses, affected individuals are encouraged to stay informed about their legal options and any developments in the MDL proceedings.
Illinois Woman Alleges Talcum Powder Caused Ovarian Cancer
A woman from Chicago who claims she developed ovarian cancer after using Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower has filed a lawsuit against J&J.
Plaintiff Barbara Ross alleges that she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2014 at the age of 39 as the result of her daily use of talc-based products for feminine hygiene since 1992.
Ross seeks a jury trial and compensatory and punitive damages against Johnson & Johnson.
Related Articles:
Baby Powder Cancer Lawsuit Filed in California
A California woman who allegedly developed uterine cancer after using Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products has filed a lawsuit against the manufacturer.
Plaintiff Dolores Gould claims she was diagnosed with uterine cancer in 2006 as the result of her prolonged use of Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower.
J&J Seeks Dismissal of Talc Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit
J&J is seeking dismissal of a products liability lawsuit (Case No. BC 617311) filed by the husband of a woman who allegedly died from ovarian cancer in 2012 after using Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower for years.
The company argues that the complaint lacks personal jurisdiction and that the plaintiff failed to establish that the decedent was a resident of California, ever purchased or used its talc-containing products in the state, or developed or was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in California.
Immediate Steps for Talcum Powder Lawsuit
1. Document Product Use History
Keep a detailed record of all talcum powder products you have used, including brands and duration of use. This information is vital in establishing a link between your product use and any health issues.
2. Gather Medical Records
Collect all relevant medical documents related to your diagnosis, treatments, and any consultations regarding your health condition. This includes biopsy reports, doctor’s notes, and treatment plans that can support your claim.
3. Save Product Containers/Receipts
Retain any remaining product containers or receipts for the talcum powder you used. These items can indicate your exposure and may help establish the specific products linked to your health issues.
4. Contact Healthcare Provider
Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and concerns related to talcum powder use. Ensure that you communicate the history of your product use, as this will be important for your medical records.
5. Consult Legal Representation
Reach out to an attorney specializing in talcum powder lawsuits. A qualified lawyer can help assess your case, guide you through the legal process, and ensure that you meet all necessary deadlines for filing a lawsuit.
Taking these steps promptly can significantly enhance your chances of successfully pursuing a talcum powder lawsuit and obtaining the compensation you deserve.
FAQs
What types of compensation can I receive from a talcum powder lawsuit?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. Each case is unique, and the damages awarded depend on individual circumstances.
Can I join a class action lawsuit for talcum powder-related cancer?
You may be able to join a class action or file an individual lawsuit. Consulting with an attorney will help determine the best legal strategy for your situation.
How long does it typically take to resolve a talcum powder lawsuit?
Lawsuit durations vary, but they can take several months to years, depending on the complexity and court schedules. Patience and thorough preparation are crucial.
Has Johnson & Johnson been held liable for cancer cases related to talcum powder use?
Johnson & Johnson has been held liable for cancer cases related to talcum powder use. They have sued numerous times and has been ordered to pay substantial settlements and verdicts in several cases. The outcomes vary depending on the specifics of each case.
Get a Free Talcum Powder Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers focusing on representing plaintiffs in Talcum Powder Lawsuits. We are handling individual talcum powder cases nationwide and currently investigating potential settlements in all 50 states.
Again, if you have ovarian cancer or mesothelioma after using talcum powder, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit, and we can help.
References:
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/chemicals/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/ovarian-cancer.html
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7083145/
- https://jech.bmj.com/content/62/4/358.long
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-johnson-johnson-talc-new-york/johnson-johnson-ordered-to-pay-120-million-damages-in-new-york-baby-powder-case-idUSKBN2801VR
- https://www.marketwatch.com/story/jj-ordered-to-pay-750m-in-baby-powder-verdict-2020-02-06
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-johnson-johnson-talc-new-york/johnson-johnson-ordered-to-pay-120-million-damages-in-new-york-baby-powder-case-idUSKBN2801VR
- https://www.law360.com/articles/1201417/j-j-hit-with-40m-verdict-in-calif-talc-cancer-trial
- https://www.benzinga.com/news/19/05/13842442/johnson-johnson-to-pay-300m-in-punitive-damages-in-olson-talc-cancer-case
- https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/nation-now/2017/08/21/jury-awards-417-m-lawsuit-linking-talcum-powder-cancer/587731001/
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-johnson-johnson-talc-new-york/johnson-johnson-ordered-to-pay-120-million-damages-in-new-york-baby-powder-case-idUSKBN2801VR
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