Why Asbestos in Talc Matters to Women:
Until recently, Johnson & Johnson enjoyed a squeaky clean reputation, topping lists of “best places to work.” The company’s name was synonymous with clean, sweet-smelling babies, thanks to the popularity of its baby and talcum powder products. But in 2017, a Virginia woman sued the company, alleging that its talcum powder caused her ovarian cancer. A Missouri court awarded her more than $110 million. Then the floodgates opened. Johnson & Johnson now faces billions in class action and individual lawsuits. How did all of this begin? A recent story in the Chicago Evening Post delves into the origins of the Johnson & Johnson talcum powder controversy.
Talc and Asbestos
The dangers of asbestos are well known and documented worldwide. But did you know that asbestos often contaminates talcum powder? Talc is a natural clay mineral found in deposits in the ground. As one of the softest minerals on earth, it’s easy to grind into powder. Because it has absorbent properties, talc found its way into many personal products, including baby and body powders and cosmetics. Companies like Johnson & Johnson combined talc with cornstarch, giving its baby powder its distinct, sweet smell. Most of these products are used primarily by women.Asbestos is another soft mineral often found in deposits near talc. In fact, asbestos deposits often contaminate talc deposits. The problem arises because asbestos is a known carcinogen when it enters the human body, whether through inhalation, ingestion, or carried on a powder used in personal areas.
FDA Hasn’t Banned Talc
Despite the danger, the United States is one of the few countries that hasn’t banned talc, continuing to import the product as of 2020. In the meantime, U.S. consumers and U.S. women will need to remain vigilant to the possibility of asbestos-contaminated talc in their beauty and personal products.If you believe talcum powder has harmed you or someone you love, resulting in cancer or a mesothelioma diagnosis, contact the Madeksho Law Firm at 1-888-910-MESO (6376) or through our online form. Your initial consultation is free, and you won’t pay a fee unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
