Talcum powder has been used as part of women’s daily hygiene regimen for years. Talc may be responsible for causing ovarian cancer in thousands of women each year.
The link between Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder and ovarian cancer dates back as early as 1971, when a study of ovarian cancer patients revealed talc particles in their ovarian tissues. Talc has remained on the market without restriction or warnings for over 40 years.
Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer
Talc is a mineral comprised primarily of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. In powder form, talc can absorb moisture and reduce friction. When used on the female genitals, however, talc particles can travel into the ovaries and remain trapped for years. These particles can cause inflammation leading to the growth of ovarian cancer cells. [1]
One review of data indicated that women who regularly use talcum powder for feminine hygiene may increase their risk of ovarian cancer by about 41 percent. [2]
In 1992, a study found that regular use of baby powder increased the risk of developing ovarian cancer threefold. [3] Yet talcum powder remains on the market for feminine hygiene use.
Talcum Powder Litigation
The first baby powder cancer lawsuit was won in 2013. A federal jury recently found that talcum contained in some Johnson & Johnson powders contributed to a woman’s ovarian cancer.
The plaintiff was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2006, after about 30 years of using talcum-based Johnson & Johnson powders, including Shower-to-Shower body powder, as part of her personal hygiene routine. The jury found that Johnson & Johnson failed to warn consumers of a link between the use of talc-based powder for feminine hygiene and the increased risk of ovarian cancer.
If you or a loved one has developed ovarian cancer as a result of prolonged talcum powder use on the female genitals, please contact Chelsie King Garza. We have helped women and their families obtain the compensation that they deserve.
