Could baby powder cause cancer?
Could something as seemingly innocuous and ubiquitous as baby powder cause cancer? Could this Johnson & Johnson personal hygiene product that mothers feel safe putting on their babies be a potentially deadly carcinogen? As far-fetched as it sounds, Johnson & Johnson baby powder — which is comprised of the naturally occurring mineral talcum — can also contain asbestos in many cases. This means that baby powder can also cause deadly asbestos-related cancers.
A landmark jury verdict on July 12 gave credence to the connection between baby powder, asbestos, and cancer. In a massive lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson that involved claims relating to 22 women, the plaintiffs prevailed. They received an award totaling $4.7 billion to be divided among the victims who are still alive and the family members of those who had died. All of the women whose cases were included in the lawsuit had allegedly contracted ovarian cancer after years of using Johnson & Johnson baby powder for feminine hygiene purposes.
During the trial, the plaintiffs’ attorneys presented evidence of a causal connection between baby powder use and ovarian cancer. This included the results of scientific studies and expert testimony. The plaintiffs even revealed that the victims in the case had evidence of asbestos fibers embedded within their ovaries.
For many years, Johnson & Johnson has been fighting lawsuits alleging that baby powder use resulted in cancer. This case, however, was the first that successfully focused on the asbestos found in baby powder. Attorneys for the plaintiffs said that they hoped the results of the case would inspire federal authorities to demand the removal of talcum-based powders from the market.
If you contracted ovarian cancer following the repeated use of Johnson & Johnson baby powder, you may want to investigate whether you have a potential product liability claim for damages against the company.