When the news of Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower powder could cause ovarian cancer to women came out, many were shocked. For generations, these products were used to treat a variety of skin conditions and were reliable hygienic products.

However, recent baby powder lawsuits filed against the company allege the products’ main ingredient, talc, is to blame. Because talcum powder has been such a  popular choice for women to use for personal hygiene purposes, it was hard for many to accept the idea that it may also cause one of the deadliest forms of cancer for women.

Despite the recent concern, the potential for ovarian cancer caused by Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products had its roots in the early 1970s. At that time, a study of ovarian cancer patients showed that a majority of them had talc in the affected area. However, Johnson & Johnson and talc mining companies have argued that these findings were not sufficient. It was another 40 years before they had to defend themselves against baby powder cancer allegations again.

A study published in 2009 suggests that women carry at least a 40 percent higher risk of developing ovarian cancer when using talcum powder. This study was led by Dr. Margaret Gates of the Harvard Medical School, and included data from the Nurses’ Health Study and the New England Case-Control Study. According to the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, approximately 14,000 women in America died from ovarian cancer in 2013.

A medical expert who testified at two of the baby powder lawsuits that have been reported, have said they believe that as much as 10 percent of U.S. ovarian cancer cases are related to the use of talcum powder.

Overview of Talcum Powder Cancer Complications

Talc is a mineral primarily composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen, and when formed into a powder, can absorb moisture and reduce friction. This makes it a popular product to use to keep skin dry and prevent rash. Experts state that when used for this purpose, the talc presents no threat. However, when the powder is applied to the woman’s genital area, the powder can travel through the vagina and enter the user’s bloodstream. Medical experts state that these particles could potentially remain in the ovaries for up to three years, and cause the inflammation and growth of ovarian cancer cells.

At least one state attorney general’s office is investigating Johnson & Johnson’s promotion of talcum powder products for feminine hygiene. The company may also face additional lawsuits from women who had used talcum regularly throughout their life.