Drug Injury Lawyers Blog
For decades, thousands of women used – and many continue to use – talcum powder as a feminine-hygiene product. Unfortunately, a significant percentage of those women may have developed ovarian cancer as a result. One of the deadliest forms of cancer, ovarian cancer is linked to the use of talc-based products, including Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower.
The Risk of Ovarian Cancer Has Been Known for Decades
Talcum powder gets its name because it contains a mineral called talc. When these products are used in the genital area, talc particles can enter the vagina, and travel through the fallopian tubes into the ovaries. When talc particles embed in the ovaries, resulting irritation can cause inflammation, which can lead to the formation of cancerous cells. Most disturbing is the news that manufacturing giant Johnson & Johnson may have known about this deadly risk since the 1970s.
Talcum Powder Increases Risk of Ovarian Cancer by 20 to 30 Percent
Researchers have known about the link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer since 1971. Studies conducted that year revealed that 75 percent of ovarian tumors studied contained talc particles. More recently, a 2013 study published in “Cancer Prevention Research” found that talcum powder use increases a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer by up to 30 percent. J&J’s failure to warn about these risks may have resulted in the deaths of thousands of women. When companies put profits before the health and safety of customers, they should be held accountable.
Signs of Ovarian Cancer
If you develop any of the following signs or symptoms, contact your physician immediately:
- Abdominal pain, bloating, or nausea that won’t go away
- Unexplained loss of appetite
- A feeling of being “always full”
- Pelvic and lower back pressure
- Frequent urination
- Changes in bowel movements
- Constant fatigue
- Abdominal swelling
All of the above symptoms are related to multiple health conditions, some of them harmless. However, it’s better to be safe than sorry. This is especially true with ovarian cancer, which has been dubbed the “silent killer” because symptoms often go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Many lawsuits have been filed against J&J, and at least two cases have already been successful. In fact, the family of one deceased plaintiff was awarded $72 million in 2016 for the loss of their loved one to ovarian cancer. Another woman received $55 million this year, after she developed ovarian cancer from decades of baby powder use. Experts have reported that talcum powder use may be linked to an estimated 10,000 new ovarian cancer cases each year. New studies suggest that use of talc-based products may also be linked to mesothelioma, another highly-aggressive form of cancer.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Boston’s Premier Personal Injury Law Firm
With more than 50 years’ experience protecting the rights of injury victims, the legal team at Altman & Altman, LLP knows how to get you the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has used talcum powder and have subsequently been diagnosed with ovarian cancer give our experienced drug injury lawyers a call for a free case consultation. Our skilled lawyers will make sure you understand your rights and options before moving forward with a legal strategy. Don’t go through this alone. Contact Altman & Altman, LLP today for a free and confidential consultation about your case. 617-492-3000.
