What is Talc?
Talc is a mineral composed of magnesium, silicon and oxygen that can be found in the earth’s crust. It’s soft when mined but hardens as it ages. When used as a cosmetic ingredient, talcum powder is ground into a fine powder that absorbs moisture.
Talcum powder is a common ingredient in baby powder and other cosmetic products. Talc absorbs moisture, making it useful for keeping skin dry and preventing rashes, but over the years, studies have linked talcum powder to ovarian cancer—and many people who have used it are now eligible to file a lawsuit.
First Studies Link Talc To Cancer
Talc has been linked to ovarian cancer since 1971, when research first suggested there may be a connection between the two factors. Since then, more studies have found similar results. In 1982 a case-controlled study was the first to link genital use of talcum powder to ovarian-cancer. Since then, many studies have confirmed that genital use of baby powder with talc can increase the risk of ovarian cancer to more than 30%.
A 2016 study focused their research on African American women, as marketing studies suggested were the most common users of talcum baby powder. Unfortunately the study confirmed that African American women were 40% more likely to develop ovarian cancer than those who did not use baby powder.
Talc Powder Lawsuits: How Do They Work?
Talcum powder lawsuits have been brought against Johnson & Johnson—for failing to warn customers about the risks associated with using these products as directed. These companies were aware of studies showing a link between inhaling talc particles and an increased risk for ovarian cancer but failed to warn customers about this link or include warnings on product labels or packaging materials. As a result, many women who used J&J’s Baby Powder on their genital area over many years developed ovarian cancer—and they weren’t warned about the dangers of using the product.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and have used talcum baby powder, contact us today for your free consultation.