What are the Dangers Associated with Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder with Talc?

A number of studies have found that Johnson & Johnson baby powder with talc and Shower to Shower with talc—when used for feminine hygiene purposes—can cause ovarian cancer. The first study to associate talc fibers with inflammation was in 1931. More studies were to follow, particularly in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. Researchers found microscopic talc fibers embedded in ovarian and cervical tumors removed from women who had died from the diseases.

Most everyone is familiar with the silky feel and iconic smell of J & J baby powder with talc, and it has been a solid seller for the company, making them more than $418 million in 2018. Despite research showing the correlation between talcum powder used for feminine hygiene and ovarian cancer, J & J refused to pull their talc-based products from shelves, although most other powder manufacturers traded the talcum in their products for cornstarch.

Where Does the Baby Powder Ovarian Cancer Litigation in Columbus, Ohio Stand?

The first baby powder ovarian cancer lawsuit was filed against Johnson & Johnson in 2009. Deane Berg developed ovarian cancer at the young age of 49, after using J & J baby powder with talc for feminine hygiene since she was a teen. There have been significant monetary awards to a number of plaintiffs in the J & J baby powder ovarian cancer lawsuits—all of which Johnson & Johnson has appealed. The appeal for one of the largest awards was very recently denied by a Missouri Appeals Court. J & J has said they will take the case to the Supreme Court. There are currently 20,000 plus talcum powder lawsuits pending against Johnson & Johnson. Some of those lawsuits were filed by women in the state of Ohio.

Why Hasn’t Talcum Powder Been Recalled by the FDA?

The FDA has little control over beauty products and cosmetics, therefore has not asked J & J to recall their talc-based products. Yet in May 2020, Johnson & Johnson announced they would cease sales of their baby powder with talc and Shower to Shower with talc in the United States and Canada. J & J continues to maintain their talc products are perfectly safe, attributing the recent move to slower sales resulting from the “barrage of lawsuits” pending against them.  

Have the Statutes of Limitations Passed for My Baby Powder Ovarian Cancer Case?

The statutes of limitations govern the amount of time you have in which to file a claim for damages when you have been injured by a defective or dangerous product. The statutes of limitations vary from state to state, ranging from one year to more than ten years. It is important to note that there are certain issues that can impact the statutes, so it could be extremely beneficial to speak to an experienced baby powder ovarian cancer lawyer regarding the statutes of limitations in Columbus, Ohio.

Could Speaking to a Baby Powder Ovarian Cancer Lawyer Regarding Your Columbus, Ohio Claim Be Beneficial?

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and you believe the talc-based products made by Johnson & Johnson are responsible, you could potentially benefit from filing a baby powder ovarian cancer lawsuit. Talking to an experienced Sullo & Sullo attorney can help you make these very important decisions for your health and your future.