Parker Waichman LLP

JJ Should Have Disclosed Talcum Powder Cancer Risks Since 1982 Expert Testifies

Talcum Powder Cancer Risks. J&J Failed To Disclosed Talcum Powder Cancer Risks. Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products should have carried a cancer warning since 1982, jurors heard during an expert testimony. The company is accused of failing to disclose that its talcum powder products, including Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower, can increase the risk of ovarian […]

Talcum Powder Cancer RisksTalcum Powder Cancer Risks. J&J Failed To Disclosed Talcum Powder Cancer Risks. Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products should have carried a cancer warning since 1982, jurors heard during an expert testimony. The company is accused of failing to disclose that its talcum powder products, including Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower, can increase the risk of ovarian cancer when used in the genital region for feminine hygiene. Jurors are currently hearing arguments in the case.

Talcum powder litigation has gained more attention in light of two large verdicts issued this year. Jurors awarded $72 million to the family of a woman who died of ovarian cancer. Another jury awarded $55 million to a woman diagnosed with ovarian and endometrial cancer, allegedly due to talcum powder.

Plaintiffs argue that the fine talc particles can travel up the female reproductive tract and reach the ovaries, where they can build up and trigger the type of inflammation that leads to cancer growth.

Law360 reports that David C. Steinberg, who runs a topical over-the-counter drug compliance consulting firm and founded the Cosmetic Preservatives Council, provided expert testimony at trial. He pointed to a 1982 study linking talcum powder to ovarian cancer, and noted subsequent studies with similar findings. Steinberg says J&J should have warned of ovarian cancer with its talcum powder products.

TALCUM POWDER AND OVARIAN CANCER

The link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer first emerged in 1971, when a study published in a British journal found talc particles embedded in ovarian tumors. Steinberg testified that most manufacturers stay up-to-date with relevant medical research because it allows them to keep up with safety concerns, business problems or opportunities.

Steinberg also criticized the way J&J handled the prospect of talcum powder studies, citing 1994 documents showing the company did not want to pay for them. J&J wanted the government to fund the research instead, which Steinberg said was the wrong move. “If you want to be self-regulated, step up to the plate and pay for the studies,” he said, according to Law360. “If you don’t want to be self-regulated, then have the taxpayers pay for it. I don’t think you can have it both ways.”

The plaintiff is a woman who was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer, allegedly due to using talcum powder in the genital region for many years. She alleges that J&J and talc supplied Imerys Talc failed to disclose this information despite being aware of the risks. Jurors heard that her life expectancy is greatly reduced as a result of her cancer. She alleges that had she been informed, she would not have used talcum powder for feminine hygiene.

NEED LEGAL HELP REGARDING Talcum Powder Cancer Risks?

The personal injury attorneys at Parker Waichman LLP offer free, no-obligation case evaluations. For more information, fill out our online contact form or call 1-800-YOURLAWYER (1-800-968-7529).

What Our Clients Say About Us
We have worked with thousands of clients and we appreciate them and their positive reviews. Here are just a few recent client reviews...
5 Star Reviews 150
Great Firm. Had an issue getting into their portal. Josette was very responsive and resolved the issue.
hfd251
5 years ago
5 Star Reviews 150
My husband lost his parents within 2 years. His father most recently and we are distraught over his care prior to passing. We decided to call Parker Waichman, and were greeted by Joanna. We sat and explained our story, and literally felt like we were sitting with family. Joanna went out of her way to make sure we understood every single detail, and were comfortable with our choices. Lawyers can be intimidating, but we never once felt that way. We are very comfortable with our choice to use them and would recommend anyone to use their services. (Joanna even went out of her way to hand deliver the most delicious olive oil, not sold in the U.S to our home!!)
Diane Terracciano
3 years ago
5 Star Reviews 150
Parker Waichman LLP has provided outstanding client service. Working with Christina Morace made the process seamless. She was diligent, timely, and proficient. She always kept me abreast of my case. I am thankful for their service and highly recommend the firm to my friends and family for their outstanding, speedy, and courteous service. Edith J. Barrow
Charmaine Gray
3 years ago

Why Choose Us to Help You?

We Take Care of Everything
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
No Recovery = No Legal Fees
We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning that we only get paid from a portion of your settlement or jury award. If you don't get compensation, you owe us nothing.
Decades of Experience
Your situation is stressful enough: Let us take on the deadlines, paperwork, investigation, and litigation. We'll handle every detail so you don't have to worry.
Respected by Our Peers
Judges, insurance adjusters, and fellow attorneys all speak highly of our skills, and we've earned numerous accolades, including a flawless rating from AVVO.
We Have Many Locations To Serve You
We have the experience and the skilled litigators to win your case. Contact us and speak with a real attorney who can help you.
Long Island – Nassau
Parker Waichman LLP
6 Harbor Park Drive
Port Washington, NY 11050
Long Island – Suffolk
Parker Waichman LLP
201 Old Country Road – Suite 145
Melville, NY 11747
New York
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038
Queens
Parker Waichman LLP
118-35 Queens Boulevard, Suite 400
Forest Hills, NY 11375
Brooklyn
Parker Waichman LLP
300 Cadman Plaza West
One Pierrepont Plaza, 12th Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11201
New Jersey
Parker Waichman LLP
80 Main Street, Suite 265
West Orange, NJ 07052
Florida
Parker Waichman LLP
27299 Riverview Center Boulevard
Suite 108
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Nationwide Service
Parker Waichman LLP
59 Maiden Lane, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10038