We tend to associate talcum powder with babies – fresh, clean, and sweet-smelling. For years people have used talcum powder to absorb moisture for babies and adults, applying baby powder and body powder after showers, baths, fresh diapers, or exercising. But over the last few years, we’ve seen headlines filled with news of the harm that talcum powder can cause, including cancer.
Talc is a naturally occurring clay-like mineral composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. Ground into a fine powder, talc can absorb moisture. As a result, manufacturers often use talc in cosmetics, baby powder, and adult body powders.
When talc is finely ground and used near the genitals, the body cannot expel the tiny particles. Since the 1970s, studies have linked talc to ovarian cancer for women using powders containing talc near their genitals. In 2003, a comprehensive examination of 16 of these studies showed women who had used talc in the genital area had a 33% increased risk of developing cancer.
Before 1970, talcum powder was infused with asbestos and could lead to mesothelioma. Although manufacturers now claim their products are “asbestos-free,” memos from Johnson & Johnson discovered over the last few years indicate that the company knew that asbestos might have contaminated their products. No amount of asbestos exposure is safe. Moreover, exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma and other cancers.
Juries have awarded billions of dollars in lawsuits against the manufacturers of products with talc over the last decade, including a $4.7 billion award to 22 women in 2018. There is also a pending class-action lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson. If may be able to file a lawsuit if you:
If you believe that talcum powder harmed you or a loved one, give the Madeksho Law Firm a call at 1-888-910-6376 or contact us through our online form. We never charge a fee unless we obtain compensation on your behalf.
