Johnson & Johnson may be facing product liability lawsuits from women across the country over allegations that talcum powder, such as Johnson’ Baby Powder, can cause ovarian cancer.

Several law firms and the Mississippi Attorney General’s office are investigating the marketing tactics Johnson & Johnson used for Johnson’s Baby Powder — primarily whether or not Johnson & Johnson advertised talcum powder as a feminine hygiene product, due to a growing concern over whether or not talcum powder may cause vaginal irritation as well as an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

The concern has risen after a recent study was published in 2013 in the journal Cancer Prevention Research, which indicated that women who use talc powder had a 20 percent to 30 percent higher risk of developing ovarian cancer compared to women who did not use talc powder. The study also found that about 2,000 of these women used talcum powder on their genital areas.

>>Baby Powder Danger: Ovarian Cancer Risk

Older studies found similar results, and suggest that when talc is applied to a woman’s genital area the substance can travel through the vagina and into the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. According to the American Cancer Society, the findings throughout the years in these studies are inconclusive, however if there is indeed an increased risk of ovarian cancer from baby powder, it is likely to be very small.

Johnson & Johnson has made no comment on the matter.

Understanding the Dangers of Baby Powder Cancer

Talcum powder is made from a mineral called talc, which is composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. The powder is designed to absorb moisture and prevent friction and is typically used to treat dry skin as wells as to prevent rashes. Unfortunately in its natural form, talc may actually contain asbestos, a material known for causing a form of lung cancer called mesothelioma. Up until the 1970’s, almost all home-used talcum powder contained asbestos.  However, experts say that talcum powder has not contained asbestos since then.

Several studies have suggested that talcum powder may cause cancer, but the findings have been varied. Some studies found only a small increase, whereas other studies found a significant increase.  For example, one study conducted in 2003 found that women who used talcum powder had a 30 percent higher risk of developing ovarian cancer, compared to the women who did not use talcum powder.

Talc is used in a wide variety of products to this day, so the research into this issue continues, with experts asserting that a very real danger may exist.  Cancer researchers suggest that if a risk does exist with the talcum powder, it is likely small, but needs to be noted on the product’s label.

Join a Free Baby Powder Cancer Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

Currently, only one known baby powder cancer lawsuit was filed in October 2013 by a woman alleging that she developed ovarian cancer from Johnson’s baby powder. More lawsuits are expected to follow, including a potential class action lawsuit filed on behalf of women who used Johnson’s Baby Powder or Shower to Shower and were diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

If you used Johnson’s Baby Powder or Shower to Shower Body Powder and were diagnosed with ovarian cancer, you may qualify to participate in Johnson’s Baby Powder Cancer, Shower to Shower Class Action Lawsuit Investigation and pursue compensation and other damages. Family members of loved ones who died of baby powder cancer can also join. It’s absolutely free to participate, and the baby powder cancer lawyers working this investigation do not get paid unless you do.