Lawsuit Will Attempt to Conclusively Link Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder to Ovarian Cancer

The family of Jackie Fox has filed suit against Johnson & Johnson, claiming that their Shower to Shower talc product contributed to the ovarian cancer that caused her death at age 62. The suit alleges that Johnson & Johnson has been aware of studies linking talc and ovarian cancer for more than 30 years, and failed to provide warning labels or take other actions while continuing to market the product.

The American Cancer Society says, “Talcum powder is made from talc, a mineral made up mainly of the elements magnesium, silicon, and oxygen.” People have been using talcum for years because it is so absorbent. It is used to keep itching and rashes at bay. Talc can be found in everything from foot powder to baby powder to many women’s cosmetics.

Danger unknown, but studies find links

Talc, and by extension, talcum powder, isn’t inherently dangerous. The powder is inert, non-reactive, and safe for human use. Bloomberg Business reports, “Evidence in the trial will include studies by Daniel Cramer, a Harvard University professor and doctor at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital, who found in 1982 that women who reported genital-talc use faced a 92 percent increase in the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Cramer, in a new study with colleagues released in December in the journal Epidemiology, concluded talc was associated with a 33 percent rise in the risk of ovarian cancer, which worsened the longer it was used.”

The complaint is one of nearly 1,200 filed in state and federal courts. While it is the first of these complaints to go to trial, it’s not the first time Johnson & Johnson has fought a case linking its products to ovarian cancer. Deane Berg of South Dakota sued the company in 2013 for causing her ovarian cancer. The jury found the Johnson & Johnson guilty of negligence, but awarded no damages to Berg, citing that medical proof was absent but the company should warn consumers of possible risks.

The family’s case is claiming that talcum powder was a contributing factor, not the direct cause, of her death. Johnson & Johnson vigorously denies wrongdoing, and claims that no studies exist that support the link between genital talc use and ovarian cancer. The outcome could set the standard for how Johnson & Johnson will handle the other 1,200 pending lawsuits.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the plaintiffs and the victims of Johnson & Johnson’s negligence. The actions and motives of big business caused needless suffering for victims and their families, and they should be held accountable.

The experienced South Carolina defective product attorneys at McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips, LLC work hard to protect our clients. If you or someone you know is a victim of a defective product or medical device, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.