Talcum Powder Linked to Ovarian Cancer
By Craig Knapp on April 6, 2016

Since the early 80’s studies have suggested a link between talcum powder, used in some baby powder products like Johnson & Johnson, and ovarian cancer. But it wasn’t until recently that its harmful effects have made headlines. This is due in large part to Jacqueline Fox and her family.

Jacqueline used Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder and Shower to Shower for more than 35 years before she was diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer in 2013. She sprinkled baby powder into her panties every morning before she put them on, explaining in a deposition that she was raised being taught to do so. It wasn’t until she was diagnosed that she learned that talcum powder (used in her Baby Powder product) could be a possible carcinogen.

With this knowledge, she joined more than 1,000 women in suing Johnson & Johnson and Imerys, the talc supplier, for failing to put warning labels on talcum-based products despite knowing of the potential cancer risk since 1979. In fact, Bloomberg Businessweek uncovered an internal company memo from years ago acknowledging the risks. Jacqueline passed away in October at 62 years old from ovarian cancer.

Jacqueline’s family continued with the case in court and recently, the verdict was announced in the circuit court of St. Louis that her family would receive $72 million — $10 million in actual damages and $62 million in punitive damages. According to an article in Reuter’s, the family’s lawyers said, “Jurors found Johnson & Johnson liable for fraud, negligence and conspiracy.” It was the first verdict by a U.S. jury to award damages over the claims against Johnson & Johnson.

There are currently 1,000 cases filed in Missouri state court, and an additional 200 in New Jersey against Johnson & Johnson alleging their failure to warn consumers of its talc-based products’ risks.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using talcum powder products (such as Johnson and Johnson products) on genital areas for feminine hygiene, contact the experienced Phoenix Talcum Powder Claims Lawyers at Knapp & Roberts in Arizona today for a free consultation. Together, we can hold Johnson & Johnson accountable for their actions. Call 480-991-7677 today.

Worried you may be at risk of ovarian cancer after using talcum-based baby powders, like Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder, for many years? Read our blog on 6 signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.