Johnson & Johnson is facing a new lawsuit claiming exposure to baby powder led to the death of a 58-year old Minnesota woman.

Plaintiff Deborah J., individually and as the trustee for the heirs of Pamela W., deceased, brings this action against Johnson & Johnson, alleging exposure to baby powder caused her sister’s diagnosis of ovarian cancer and ultimately her death.

According to the baby powder lawsuit, Pamela applied J&J’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower products to her perineal area for nearly her entire adult life.

She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2012, underwent a hysterectomy and chemotherapy but died of ovarian cancer on August 31, 2013.

The lawsuit states there was never any indication on Johnson’s powder products packaging that normal, everyday exposure to baby powder could and would cause Pamela to develop ovarian cancer.

Deborah, as Pamela’s surviving sister is seeking judgment against J&J for compensatory, economic, and punitive damages for the baby powder manufacturer’s alleged indifference for the safety and welfare of the general public and Pamela.

Is Exposure to Baby Powder Harmful?

For more than four decades, there have been suspicions in the medical industry that the use of talcum powder is related to the development of cancer in the reproductive system.

Medical studies thus far have failed to prove talc is completely safe. Though many believe other factors likely play a role in whether or not a woman will develop cancer if she uses powder, there is evidence that talc particles travel through the vagina and into the fallopian tubes, increasing a women’s risk for developing ovarian cancer.

Though the debate over just how serious the risk is for developing ovarian cancer as a result of exposure to baby powder, some believe the link is clear enough that manufacturers of talc products, like Johnson and Johnson should have taken action and warned consumers.

Link Between Cancer and Baby Powder

The link between ovarian cancer and talcum powder was originally discovered in 1971 in a study that revealed talc particles in the ovarian tissue of cancer patients.

This was the first instance in which medical professionals realized women were at risk when using the powder on their genitals, sanitary pads, diaphragms, and in condoms.

Talc particles easily made their way into the vagina and were able to travel deeper into the reproductive organs.

One sample study demonstrated the ability of carbon particles to travel through the vagina and into the fallopian tubes in as little as 30 minutes, leading researchers to believe the same was possible with talc particles.

Filing a Baby Powder Lawsuit

Despite the original findings and subsequent studies that have supported the original research, Johnson & Johnson continues to argue against the connection citing insufficient evidence. The company has also managed to keep its product on the market without a warning for nearly half a century after the original discovery.

As a result of J&J’s failure to warn about the alleged dangers of exposure to baby powder, many women are pursuing baby powder ovarian cancer lawsuits against the company.

Women, like Deborah, claim the manufacturers were aware of the risks, but hid information from customers to continue to increase profits.

If you or a loved one has been a long-time user of Johnson & Johnson baby powder or any other talcum powder product and received an ovarian cancer diagnosis, you may be eligible for financial compensation.

The Baby Powder Lawsuit is Case No. 0:16-cv-02922 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota.