The talcum powder lawsuit revolves around allegations that the manufacturers didn’t warn users about the increased risk of contracting ovarian cancer and mesothelioma when women use talcum powder for personal hygiene. 

The New York law firm of Gary Falkowitz is working to obtain compensation for our clients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or ovarian cancer, and who significantly exposed themselves to talcum powder.

 

What Is Known About the Talcum Powder Lawsuits?

The talcum powder lawsuits contain allegations that for more than 40 years, the manufacturers knew there was a link between using talcum powder and the increased risk of contracting ovarian cancer and mesothelioma.

Despite knowing this information, the manufacturers chose not to warn women about the increased risk of contracting mesothelioma and ovarian cancer when their product is used for personal hygiene. 

The talcum powder can cause mesothelioma by entering your lungs, and ovarian cancer by entering your vagina after you use the product for personal hygiene, mainly if you use the product on your genital areas or on sanitary napkins or condoms. 

The main products that are a party to the lawsuits revolve around using Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder, Shower to Shower by Valeant Pharmaceuticals, and Baby Magic Baby Powder.

 

How Does Talcum Powder Cause Cancer?

Talcum powder is made by extremely pure hydrated magnesium silicate that is used to absorb moisture and as a lubricant. It’s also the primary ingredient in Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder as well as the adult version of similar hygiene products. 

Women use talcum powder to absorb smells and keep your skin dry when it is sprinkled on underwear, shoes, or after changing a baby’s diapers.

As a lubricant, it’s very often found in condoms and diaphragms to reduce friction, and it’s located in many medical powders. 

By either breathing the product into your lungs during the application, or whether talcum powder enters your vagina when applied, your risks for ovarian cancer and mesothelioma are increased with frequent use of this product.

  

What Are the Injuries and Side Effects Caused by Talcum Powder?

The most severe potential side effect for women is ovarian cancer, which is caused by the powder entering your ovaries through your vagina, or mesothelioma, which is caused by the dust being inhaled into your lungs.

The International Journal of Gynecological Cancer has said that through the frequent use of talcum powder on a woman’s genital area, the risk of cancer increases between 30-60%. The more frequent the use of the talcum powder, the more likely it is that a woman will contract cancer.

Additionally, talcum powder has caused respiratory issues, including mesothelioma. This occurs because, during the application of talcum powder, it becomes airborne. Researchers have also said that talcum powder has a chemical similar to asbestos.

 

Are the Talcum Powder Lawsuits a Class Action? 

In a class-action lawsuit, a few individuals represent the interests of many other people. Any rulings by the court are binding on everyone involved in a class-action lawsuit. Furthermore, all members of a class-action lawsuit are required to accept any settlement that is approved by the court, even if it means the members will receive little or no compensation whatsoever. 

The New York law firm of Gary Falkowitz doesn’t use a class action lawsuit to obtain compensation for our clients. We prefer to represent each client based upon your individual case. This way, we are able to evaluate your recovery based on the facts of your case. Additionally, each client has the option of settling or not settling their claim.

 

Has Any Talcum Powder Been Recalled?

As of right now, there have been no recalls of talcum powder. However, it’s important to note that talcum powder is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, as the manufacturers are supposed to govern themselves.

There are many scientific studies that show women who use talcum powder on their genital area at least once per week, increase their chances of getting cancer by 30-60%. In 1999, the American Cancer Society recommended that women should be using cornstarch-based products, and not talcum powder on your genital areas.

 

Have There Been Any Verdict or Settlements in the Talcum Powder Lawsuits?

In March of 2019, a jury in California awarded 30 million dollars to a woman who was diagnosed with mesothelioma that the jury found was caused by Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder.

In July of 2018, 22 women were awarded $4.6 billion by a jury who found that Johnson & Johnson talcum powder was responsible for their ovarian cancer.

If you or a loved one have used talcum powder frequently for personal hygiene and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or ovarian cancer, you may be entitled to substantial monetary compensation for your injuries.  

The New York law firm of Gary Falkowitz will take the time to evaluate your case and inform you of your options. We have the knowledge and experience to help you receive any monetary compensation you may deserve.