Liability Attorneys Seeking Compensation for Victims of Harmful Products
Increasing medical evidence indicates that there may be a link between the use of talcum powder and ovarian cancer. While talcum powder was once a bathroom staple, the use of it for intimate feminine hygiene and the increased risk for ovarian cancer has been a suspicion of physicians for some time.
About the Lawsuits
Several lawsuits allege that Johnson & Johnson, the most popular manufacturer for talcum powder, is responsible for causing ovarian cancer after long-term use of their product. In 2016, a St. Louis jury voted in favor of a woman who filed a suit against the manufacturer for her ovarian cancer. She was awarded $70 million by the jury.
Lawsuits do not accurately determine if a product leads to cancer. Instead, the case proved that there was an adequate link or a defect in the product, which caused cancer. Instead, medical research determines if there is a true correlation between the two.
The science regarding the link of talcum powder and ovarian cancer is not as clear as it should be. There is some literature that suggests a link between the two; however, the literature is not consistent.
Facts About Talcum Powder
- Talc may be a cancer-causing mineral. This is a common misconception out there, but talc is a natural mineral derived from calcium, silicon, oxygen, and magnesium. In some cases, talc can contain asbestos, which leads to lung cancers. However, there is no link between talc and various other types of cancer. The talcum powder available to consumers has been asbestos-free since 1970.
- There is no specific research. While researchers can theorize, there is no ethical way to prove that talcum powder leads to ovarian cancer. After all, a scientist cannot ask a woman to subject herself to a deadly disease for the purpose of science. While some studies in rats and other animals indicate a correlation, there are no human-based studies that have confirmed the research.
- The CDC considers it partially carcinogenic. The International Agency for Research on Cancer does consider talcum powder a partially carcinogenic substance to humans, but they also state that there is no conclusive evidence for that statement.
- Pediatricians do not recommend the use of talcum powder on babies. While it is still sold for babies, pediatric professionals no longer recommend the use of talcum powder on infants. Not because of the link of ovarian cancer and the powder, but because babies may inhale talcum powder and damage their lungs.
Injured by a Defective Product? You May Have a Claim
While the scientific research is not always sound, products can harm consumers, and some may even cause deadly forms of cancer. If you have been diagnosed with cancer and you think there is a link between a product you have used and your cancer diagnosis, contact an attorney right away.
The Gladstein Law Firm, PLLC can help determine if you have a claim against the manufacturer. We will aggressively seek compensation for your damages. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation now by calling us or request more information online.
