Many in the medical industry have suspected for decades that the use of talcum powder is related to the development of cancer in the reproductive organs. Medical studies have failed to prove talc is safe. There is evidence that talc travels through the vagina and into the fallopian tubes, thereby increasing the chances of developing ovarian cancer.
The first study linking talc and cancer was conducted in 1971. Since then companies have failed to warn consumers of its potential risks. Some people believe manufacturers of talc products should be held accountable for not warning consumers.
In one recent lawsuit, Johnson & Johnson was ordered to pay $72 million to the family of a woman who died from ovarian cancer after using the company’s Baby Powder and other feminine hygiene products containing talc.
The St. Louis jury awarded the family $10 million in actual damages and $62 million in punitive damages.
The “Baby Powder Lawsuit” revealed an internal memo from Johnson & Johnson’s medical consultant in which the consultant said “anybody who denies” the risk of using hygienic talc and ovarian cancer is “denying the obvious in the face of all evidence to the contrary.”
Although there is some conflicting research, most published studies suggest that feminine hygiene products containing talc are associated with ovarian cancer.
It appears that Ovarian cancer risks increases by 30–60 percent when the talcum powder enters the ovaries through the external genitalia after being applied on sanitary napkins, condoms, and other birth control devices.
It is still unknown exactly how talcum powder increases the risk of cancer, but it has been suggested that chronic inflammation plays a substantial role in the development of cancer.
If you or a love one has suffered from ovarian cancer after using talcum powder, don’t hesitate to contact our office.
