As an update to our previously run blog regarding the use of talcum powder being linked to ovarian cancer in women, there is news of a ruling ordering Johnson & Johnson to pay 72 million dollars out for an ovarian cancer death. On February 22, 2016 a St. Louis jury ordered the company to pay this money to the family of Jacqueline Fox, who passed away at the age of 62 after the trial had already begun against Johnson & Johnson. She died from ovarian cancer after using the company’s talc containing products that was linked to her ovarian cancer. In fact, Ms. Fox had been using Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower body powder for feminine hygiene for over 35 years as the company encouraged via their marketing of the products.
What is discouraging about this is that Johnson & Johnson put out an ad campaign about “just a sprinkle a day helps keep odor away” when there was already published research and awareness for a decade that talc was linked to a higher risk of ovarian cancer. There was a study that even revealed that most ovarian tumors had talc embedded in them! Johnson & Johnson failed to warn consumers about these findings and the jury agreed that the company was actually deliberately hiding this information from its millions of customers.
Research has found a startling connection between the use of talcum powder by women as intimate personal hygiene and a 24% higher chance of being stricken with ovarian cancer (Deadly female cancer), according to research doctors at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. Others have made claims in lawsuits that the risk is even higher at 33% (Suit against talcum powder maker Johnson & Johnson). Experts warn that particles from the powder can enter a woman’s body and leading to inflammation. Areas of inflammation are welcome homes for cancer cells to thrive.
This is startling given the fact that many consumers think of talcum powder as a non-harmful substance used for generations. In fact, it is made of hydrous magnesium silicate and used in cosmetic and personal hygiene products used by millions worldwide. The product has become enough of a deadly danger to the consumer that lawsuits have been filed. Lawsuits filed against Johnson & Johnson have asserted that “Consumers expect talc to be safe to use” because its advertising and labels for the talcum powder containing products have not included warnings against the use of the talc in the genital region. There are now an estimated 1,200 suits filed against Johnson & Johnson currently.
With the widespread use of talcum powder throughout the United States, and the class action suits arising regarding talcum powder’s link to ovarian cancer, it would be recommended that its use be reconsidered by women of all ages. Be a well-informed consumer and ask your doctor about these specific findings if you are concerned your health could be affected. Do not hesitate to bring any questions regarding your personal situation and possible claim to the experts at Inserra & Kelley Law Offices where your health and safety is priority one.