What is the Connection Between Talc and Ovarian Cancer?

May 23,2016

A woman suing Johnson & Johnson alleging its talcum powder products caused her cancer was awarded $55M, asserting there is likely a link between talc and ovarian cancer. Less than three months after losing a $72M talcum powder lawsuit to the family of Jackie Fox, J&J was ordered to pay $55M to Gloria Ristesund, who claimed she used J&J’s talcum powder for 35 years before she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2011. Ristesund is now in remission.

Ristesund’s lawyers suggested the company knew of the health risks of using talcum powder and failed to properly warn consumers. J&J officials continue to tout the safety of talcum powder products, despite losing two major suits this year. These cases are part of a larger legal action that includes 50 plaintiffs.

Talc is a naturally occurring mineral often used in cosmetics and other household products, most commonly baby powder. While the American Cancer Society doesn’t officially name it as a carcinogen or draw the link between talc and ovarian cancer, these cases of ovarian cancer resulting from years of talc use suggest more research needs to be done on the subject.

In the meantime, companies like J&J that use talc in their products should at the very least warn consumers of the potential health risks. Legally, cosmetic products are not required to undergo an FDA review; however, they are required to be labeled properly, which means displaying potential health risks.

If you are considered about talc being present in your cosmetics, you can visit the FDA website for a full listing of products containing talc.

“There is obviously some correlation between talcum powder products and instances of ovarian cancer. Companies that continue to use talc in their products without warning consumers should be held responsible for their negligence,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a defective product and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.