Johnson & Johnson is facing a new talcum powder cancer lawsuit from a woman alleging talc and ovarian cancer are linked. The claim alleged the company either knew or should have known about the alleged link between talc and ovarian cancer, but still marketed the product as safe and effective for hygienic uses.

Plaintiff Barbara S. claims the company even took deliberate measures to hide the link between talc and ovarian cancer, after the first study revealed the potential connection in the early 1970s.

However, Johnson & Johnson did not warn Barbara or other consumers of that alleged link, according to this ovarian cancer lawsuit. The company continued using marketing statements like “a sprinkle a day keeps odor away” and recommending that women can use shower to shower powder to “keep dry, fresh, and comfortable throughout the day.”

Due to these advertisements, Barbara says she used the company’s talcum powder products since 1970 all the way up through 2006. However, Barbara was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in October 2009, with her oncologist indicating her diagnosis could be linked to talcum powder use.

Barbara opted to file legal action against Johnson & Johnson, alleging the company either knew or should have known of the potential link between talc and ovarian cancer.

Overview of Talc and Ovarian Cancer Link

The first epidemiologic study analyzing the alleged link between talc and ovarian cancer was conducted in 1982, with researchers finding a 92% increased risk of ovarian cancer in women who used talcum powder.

The increased risk could stem from women lining their underwear with talcum powder to reduce vaginal odor and friction. Researchers theorize that talcum powder particles enter the body and eventually end up in the woman’s ovaries. After a certain number of years, the talc particles eventually fester and may trigger the development of cancer cells.

Ever since the 1982 study, there have been at least 27 more scientific inquiries conducted observing the potential link between talc and ovarian cancer. Each of these studies found an increased risk between talcum powder and ovarian cancer.

Talc is a soft mineral typically used for a variety of hygienic purposes like diaper rash, and has been used by women for generations. However, Johnson & Johnson had allegedly known about the potential link between talc and ovarian cancer for years, but still advertised the product for feminine hygiene use. Over the years, numerous women have come forward to file legal action against the company for negligence and failure to warn.

At all times relevant, Barbara says she used the talc powder products for typical purposes and did not deviate from product instructions. Barbara states that she never would have used the talcum powder products, if she had known about the alleged link to ovarian cancer. Barbara is filing this talcum powder cancer lawsuit, seeking compensation for medical damages and alleging multiple counts of failure to warn.

This Talc and Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit is Case No. 1:17-cv-01882, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.