Talcum Powder Causing Cancer

Talcum powder in Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower is causing ovarian cancer. Recently, a jury awarded $72 million in damages to the family of a woman who regularly used talcum products and died of ovarian cancer. Research has linked women’s regular use of talc-containing products like talcum powder, baby powder and body powder in their genital area to the development of ovarian cancer.

By the Numbers

• 10% of all Ovarian Cancers are believed to be talc-related
• 2,500 talc-related Ovarian Cancer diagnoses per year
• 1,500 talc-related deaths per year

Who is at risk for developing baby powder ovarian cancer?

Over four decades of medical literature document the link between talcum powder use and ovarian cancer. Women who have used talc-based baby powder on a weekly basis face a 33% increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, and women who have used talcum powder on a daily basis face a 41% increased risk for ovarian cancer.

How is Talcum powder dangerous?

When talc products such as baby powder are applied to the genital region, talc particles can travel through the female reproductive system to the ovaries. Talc particles may remain in the ovaries for many years, causing inflammation and creating an environment conducive to the growth of cancer cells. One expert estimates that roughly 10,000 women each year develop ovarian cancer as a result of using baby powder or body powder.

Researchers have known for more than thirty years that the perineal use of talcum powder is associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer. However, the substance is not regulated in the United States and no product warning labels are attached to talcum powder products. Ovarian cancer is a harmful disease that can result in suffering and death.

Taylor Martino is a law firm that serves victims in Alabama and Mississippi. If you believe that you, or a loved one, has been affected, please contact us today for a free and confidential consultation and case evaluation by calling 251-433-3131 or by email.