Johnson & Johnson is facing a new talcum powder cancer lawsuit from a New York woman alleging she suffered from ovarian cancer caused by talc.

Plaintiff Maureen D. claims she has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer caused by talc powder. She says she used Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower powders on a regular basis between 1975 through 2012, applying the powder to her genital area.

This is considered a normal use for talcum powder, as it is a staple bathroom item used to treat personal hygiene problems including: friction, unwanted moister, diaper rash, and dry skin. At all times relevant, Maureen says she used the company’s talcum powder product for its intended purpose and did not deviate from instructions provided on the label.

There was also no mentioning of possible ovarian cancer caused by talc powder use on the label, giving Maureen no reason to be wary or vigilant of the possibility. Maureen was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in July 2013, after undergoing exploratory diagnostic exams.

She has since had to contend with the disease, and she opted to file legal action after learning about research reporting cases of ovarian cancer caused by talc. Maureen states she would not have used the talcum powder, if she had been aware of the potential link to ovarian cancer.

Overview of Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer

A link between talc and ovarian cancer has been alleged numerous times over the years, with many plaintiffs like Maureen complaining the company negligently markets the powder in a way that puts women at risk.

For decades, Johnson & Johnson has marketed their talcum powder products as safe and effective methods for women to treat personal hygiene problems. Plaintiffs like Maureen allege the company encourages women to apply the powder to their genital area to make themselves “feel clean and fresh,” while scientific studies have suggested this may be a very bad idea.

Researchers believe the particles of talc may eventually embed themselves into the ovaries and can potentially trigger the development of cancer cells after a certain number of years. It is important to note that talcum powder has been compared to asbestos on more than one occasion, with some studies warning of potential carcinogenic risks.

The first large-scale study to observe the alleged correlation between talcum powder and ovarian cancer was conducted in the 1980s, with over 20 other inquiries finding similar results. Even though Johnson & Johnson has allegedly been aware of these results for years, the company still has not issued a public warning about the risk of ovarian cancer caused by talc powder.

This Talcum Powder Lawsuit is Case No. 7:17-cv-08568-NSR, in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York.