Back in the day, no one questioned whether or not baby powder was dangerous. After all, if it’s marketed for infants, it must be fine for those with sensitive skin. It must be natural and safe, right?
Wrong.
The dangers associated with the talc used in traditional baby powders is clearly shown by a recent jury verdict against Johnson & Johnson, one of the most famous manufacturers of hygiene products. The Los Angeles jury recently awarded $417 million to an ovarian cancer patient named Eva Echeverria.
Ms. Echeverria used Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder once or twice a day for more than four decades. Now, she is dealing with the devastating effects of a cancer that is believed to be caused by the talcum-based powder.
Thousands of woman are filing lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson
Ms. Echeverria isn’t alone. Approximately 2,000 other women have filed lawsuits alleging injuries or illnesses connected to Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder. Just this past May, for instance, a jury in St. Louis awarded another ovarian cancer patient more than $110 million.
Johnson & Johnson is only one of several manufacturers that use talc in hygiene products. Another is Valeant Pharmaceuticals, the producer of Shower to Shower.
How dangerous is talcum powder?
According to the International Journal of Gynecological Cancer, women run a 30-60 percent higher risk of developing ovarian cancer if they regularly use talcum powder on their genital areas. As might be expected, the more often they use it, the higher the risk.
If you were diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and you have a history of using talcum-based products, it’s worth it to consult a personal injury attorney for a free consultation about your rights and options.