Amid Bankruptcy Proceedings, Johnson & Johnson Halts Talcum Powder Sales

Over the past several years, thousands of lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson for its alleged failure to warn about the risks of ovarian cancer linked to its talcum powder-based products. Last year, after thousands of lawsuits were filed against J&J (and many large jury verdicts reached), the company attempted to pursue a bankruptcy structure. Since then, the proceedings in the talc litigation have been stalled. However, last month, a federal bankruptcy judge ruled that a California talc lawsuit involving claims brought by a 24-year old may proceed.

Many women use talcum powder, or baby powder, as part of their personal hygiene regimen. Studies have shown, however, that talcum powder usage may increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer. Often called the “silent killer,” ovarian cancer is considered one of the deadliest cancers in women. It often develops without symptoms and is difficult to detect in its early stages. It is for this reason that it frequently remains undiagnosed until it has metastasized, meaning it has spread to other organs.

Johnson & Johnson’s Shower to Shower and Johnson’s Baby Powder were some of the well-known talcum powder-based products available, though there were others. The main ingredient is talc, a mineral composed of hydrated magnesium silicate. When used in the genital area, or dusted on sanitary pads, tampons, or diaphragms, the tiny particles can migrate into the body and reach the ovaries.  In 2020, J&J announced they would stop selling talcum-based baby powder in the United States and Canada and J&J will stop selling talc-based baby powder globally in 2023.

Lawsuits have been filed against talcum powder manufacturers who are alleged to have failed to warn consumers of the risks of genital dusting. Many of these lawsuits were consolidated into a multi-district litigation in 2016, coordinated in one federal court under one judge.

Who is Eligible to File a Lawsuit?

If you were diagnosed with ovarian cancer after having used talcum powder, baby powder, or any other talc-based product, you may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, loss of income, and other damages. An attorney will be able to help you determine if you have a viable talcum powder claim.

Contact Our Attorneys to Discuss Talcum Powder Litigation and Your Potential Case

If you or a loved one is or was a user of any brand or brands of talcum powder and have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, please contact the attorneys at Grant & Eisenhofer.