Unfortunately, medical science has not yet definitively answered the question of what causes cancer, although there are certain factors which may put a woman at a higher risk of developing epithelial ovarian cancer. There are, however an abundance of theories regarding the risks associated with ovarian cancer. As an example, the more pregnancies a woman has had as well as whether or not she has taken birth control pills—and for how long—both appear to lower her risk of developing ovarian cancer. Since both of these events reduce the number of times a woman ovulates, some researchers believe a link exists between ovulation and a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Since tubal ligation and hysterectomies have both been found to lower a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer, the resulting theory is that carcinogenic substances must be able to enter the body through the vagina, traveling through the uterus and fallopian tubes in order to reach the ovaries. This would certainly explain how talc fibers can reach the ovaries and increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Some researchers believe androgens—male hormones—increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer.

A relatively small portion of ovarian cancers appears to be linked to inherited gene mutations, including mutations in the BRCA1, BRCA2, PTEN, STK11, MUTYH, MLH1, MLH3, MSH2, TGFBR2, PMS1, and PMS2 genes.  Women who believe they may have a family history of cancer which could potentially be linked to any of these gene mutations should consider genetic counseling and testing.

In addition to inherited gene mutations, there are acquired gene mutations which occur over the course of a woman’s life. While some cancers may result from gene mutations caused by radiation or cancer-causing chemicals, scientists have found no evidence of this in ovarian cancers. Much more research is required to gain more exact knowledge of what types of things increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Is there a Causal Link between Talcum Powder (Talc is contained in Baby Powder with Talc and/or “Shower to Shower”) and Ovarian Cancer?

It is likely the recent Johnson & Johnson talcum powder ovarian cancer lawsuits have made women across the United States anxious about the risk of developing talcum powder ovarian cancer. The pharmaceutical giant has come out on the losing end of the first three talcum powder ovarian cancer lawsuits; in the first, the jury found for the plaintiff, but awarded no damages, in the second, decided in February 2016, the jury awarded $72 million in a talcum powder wrongful death claim, and in the third, decided in early May, the jury awarded $55 million to the plaintiff.

In each case, the jury found compelling evidence to convince them that 1) there was a definite talcum powder ovarian cancer link and 2) Johnson & Johnson was aware of that link, yet failed to warn women.  According to some studies, talcum powder ovarian cancer may occur when women use talcum powder (contained in Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder with talc or “Shower to Shower” with talc) for feminine hygiene purposes. The focus on how talc could potentially contribute to ovarian cancer has left women with more questions than answers.

Do You Believe Your Ovarian Cancer May Be Related to the use of Talcum Powder (talc is Found in both Baby Powder with talc and/or “Shower to Shower”)?

If you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, it is likely your focus is solely on treating your cancer. While you may not want to think about financial issues at this time, the medical expenses associated with your ovarian cancer may be mounting alarmingly. If you are a victim of ovarian cancer and you used baby powder with talc for feminine hygiene, it could be extremely beneficial to speak with an experienced talcum powder ovarian cancer attorney. A knowledgeable and experienced talcum powder ovarian cancer attorney can answer any questions you may have, and potentially file a talcum powder ovarian cancer lawsuit on your behalf. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and possibly pain and suffering. If warranted, your baby powder ovarian cancer attorney could pursue possible punitive damages as well.