Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit and Compensation, 2024 Updates

Ovarian cancer lawsuit dominated recent headlines, shedding light on the link between talcum powder products and ovarian cancer. Talcum powder, derived from talc–a mineral mainly made up of magnesium, oxygen, and silicon–is a common ingredient in various cosmetic and industrial products. However, despite its wide application, talcum powder’s safety sparked intense debate. It is thought to cause ovarian cancer if powder particles travel through the vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes and reach the ovaries.

This contentious issue prompted ongoing legal battles and public scrutiny. Johnson & Johnson proposed an $8.9 billion global settlement in April 2023 for those tens of thousands who claimed they developed ovarian cancer or mesothelioma after using its talc-based products. Plaintiffs in over 38,000 lawsuits against the company alleged that its talc products, including Baby Powder, were contaminated with asbestos, and caused cancer. Ethen Ostroff Law examines the link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer, lawsuits, compensation options, and recent updates. Stay informed about this critical issue. 

What is talcum powder?

Talcum powder is a product made from naturally occurring talc, which is a mineral primarily composed of magnesium, oxygen, and silicon. However, some talc contains asbestos, a substance known to cause cancer. Talc is commonly used in various cosmetics and industrial products for its ability to absorb moisture and reduce friction, making it helpful in keeping skin dry and preventing rashes.

What are the common uses of talc powder?

Common uses of talcum powder include:

  • Cosmetics and personal care products. Talc is used in many cosmetic and personal care products, like loose powders, pressed powders, liquid makeup, and deodorants. It lubricates, absorbs moisture, prevents caking, and adds softness and shine to these products.
  • Food additives. Talc is sometimes used as a food additive to improve consistency and texture.
  • Home and lifestyle use: Talcum powder has several household applications like preventing chafing, freshening up the wardrobe, making dry shampoo, and cooling the sheets.
  • Industrial applications. Talc is utilized to make ceramics, paints, and other industrial products. Its properties to absorb moisture and lubricate make it suitable for various industrial processes. 
  • Medical and hygiene products. Talc is used to make pill tablets. It can also be applied during athletic or other activities to reduce friction and moisture. 

Baby Powder Use on Infants

Johnson & Johnson is a company that gained popularity for its well-known product, Baby Powder. However, there are growing concerns about the safety of using Baby Powder on children. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns against the use of talc-containing baby powders, including Baby Powder, due to concerns related to inhalation and cancer risks. Although Johnson & Johnson has denied that their product contains asbestos, recent reports suggest otherwise. 

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Baby Powder and Adult Personal Hygiene

While Baby Powder was developed for a specific market, adults commonly use it to absorb moisture and prevent chafing. Talc can also be found in other powders, cosmetics, and even foods. Even though the Food and Drug Administration is neutral on the safety of talc, other studies have discovered a link between talc and cancer. Check the Environmental Working Group’s database to see if your hygiene or cosmetic products contain talc or talcum powder.

Talcum Powder and Cancer

Talcum powder exposure has been linked to several types of cancer, including:

  • Ovarian cancer from regular use of talcum powder in the genital area 
  • Lung cancer from breathing them in. Talc contains asbestos that causes cancer if inhaled. Talc miners are at higher risk of lung cancer. 
  • Mesothelioma from asbestos exposure 
  • Stomach cancer from inhalation of talc powder 

The evidence on the link between talcum powder and cancer is mixed. The medical community has yet to say whether talcum powder causes cancer.

Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer

The link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer has been investigated for decades. Some studies suggest that when talcum powder products contaminated with asbestos are regularly applied to the genital area, the particles can travel into the ovaries. This can result in inflammation and the development of cancerous cells. The American Cancer Society also identified talcum powder as a risk factor for ovarian cancer, but it found no conclusive evidence that talcum powder causes ovarian cancer. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association also found no significant link. To date, there is no conclusive evidence on the link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer.

What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a kind of cancer that affects women and develops in the ovaries. Ovaries are female reproductive glands. They produce eggs for reproduction and the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer develops when abnormal cells in the ovaries or fallopian tubes grow and multiply uncontrollably and then invade and destroy healthy body tissue.

What are the different types of ovarian cancer?

All ovarian cancers affect one or both ovaries, as well as the tissue that surrounds organs in the abdomen. There are three types of ovarian cancer: epithelial ovarian carcinomas, germ cell tumors, and stromal cell tumors.

  • Epithelial ovarian carcinoma. It is the most common form of ovarian cancer. Approximately 85% to 90% of this cancer affects the cells that cover the ovary’s outer surface. It starts in the lining and organs of the pelvis and abdomen before spreading to the other parts of the body. Nearly 70% of women with this cancer are diagnosed in advanced stages.
  • Germ cell tumor. This cancer accounts for less than 2% of all ovarian cancers. It begins in a woman’s eggs, which are reproductive cells. Ninety percent of patients with germ cell tumors survive five years after being diagnosed. This cancer is common in teenagers and women in their twenties.
  • Stromal cell tumor. This cancer represents about 1% of all ovarian cancers. It forms in the tissues that support the ovaries and is usually diagnosed in the early stages.
ovarian cancer lawsuit

What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?

Several risk factors for ovarian cancer have been identified, including:

  • Age. Women over 50, and risk increases with age. 
  • Endometriosis. Women with endometriosis. 
  • Family history. Women whose mother, sister, or daughter has ovarian cancer. 
  • Hormone replacement therapy. Women who take estrogen alone for at least 10 years. 
  • Inherited gene mutations. More common in women of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry. 
  • Obesity. Obese women, but not the most aggressive type. 
  • Personal history of cancer. Women with breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer. 

What changes in lifestyle can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer?

Here are a couple of examples of lifestyle changes that can help lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer: 

 

  • Avoid foods like cold cuts, added sugars, alcoholic beverages, and red meats. 
  • Exercise regularly. 
  • Keep a healthy body weight. 
  • Maintain a healthy diet. No processed food. 
  • Use oral contraceptives. 
ovarian cancer class action lawsuit

What are the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer may not show any early signs or symptoms. By the time it does, the cancer may have spread. However, some common ovarian cancer symptoms are:

  • A lump in the pelvic region 
  • Back ache 
  • Bloating or swelling in the abdomen 
  • Changes in bladder habits 
  • Constipation and other bowel changes 
  • Fatigue 
  • Feeling full quickly after eating 
  • Menstrual irregularities, like heavier bleeding than usual 
  • Pain during sex 
  • Pain in the pelvic region 
  • Weight loss 
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge 

What treatments are available for ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer treatment options include:

  • Chemotherapy. This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells and is administered intravenously or directly into the abdomen. It is frequently used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
  • Hormone therapy. This therapy uses drugs to block the effects of hormones that help cancer cells grow.
  • Immunotherapy. This experimental therapy uses one’s immune system to fight cancer.
  • Palliative care. This treatment aims to improve the quality of life for people with serious illnesses through emotional support, pain alleviation, and other symptom-management choices.
  • Surgery. This is the primary treatment for ovarian cancer because it kills as much cancer as possible. The stage of the cancer determines the extent of the surgery.
  • Targeted therapy. This therapy uses drugs to target specific proteins or genes that help cancer cells grow. It is occasionally combined with chemotherapy.

Johnson & Johnson's Talcum Powder and Asbestos

According to court documents, Johnson & Johnson was aware that its talc contained asbestos as early as the 1950s. By 2018, it had paid out multimillion-dollar verdicts for asbestos exposure from contaminated talcum powder. Johnson & Johnson announced in August 2022 that it would phase out global talcum powder sales in 2023. It stopped selling talc-based Baby Powder in the United States and Canada in 2020 but continued selling it internationally. Retailers continued to sell the product until it ran out. Johnson’s Baby Powder with cornstarch will continue to be available globally.

Does Johnson's Baby Powder contain talc?

The main ingredient in Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder is talcum powder, a substance that has been linked to many adverse health effects, including cancer.

Is talcum powder safe to use now?

The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified asbestos-contaminated talcum powder to be “carcinogenic to humans” and use of genital talcum powder to be “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” The agency strongly warned against using talcum powder on the genital area. Talcum powder has been linked to ovarian cancer if particles from the genital area travel through the vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes to the ovaries.

Are all talc-based Johnson's Baby Powder being discontinued?

Johnson & Johnson has announced that it will stop selling talc-based Baby Powder worldwide in 2023. The company has already stopped selling these products in North America in 2020. Johnson & Johnson will begin using cornstarch in all Baby Powder sold worldwide. Johnson’s Baby Powder with cornstarch will continue to be available in North America. 

What are ovarian cancer lawsuits?

Ovarian cancer lawsuits are legal actions brought by women with ovarian cancer. These women claim talcum powder products, specifically those made by Johnson & Johnson, contributed to their disease. The lawsuits allege Johnson’s Baby Powder contains asbestos and other hazardous compounds that can increase the risk of ovarian cancer in women who use it for personal hygiene.

Why is Johnson & Johnson involved in ovarian cancer lawsuits?

Johnson & Johnson is one of the most prominent names associated with ovarian cancer and talcum powder lawsuits. It is facing more than 38,000 lawsuits related to its talcum powder products. The lawsuits claim that asbestos contaminated Johnson & Johnson’s talc products, including Baby Powder, and caused cancers like ovarian cancer and mesothelioma.

The plaintiffs argue Johnson & Johnson was aware of the potential risks of their talc products but failed to adequately warn consumers. The failure has resulted in lawsuits, substantial settlements, and verdicts against it. Other talcum powder manufacturers are also facing similar legal actions.

How many talc powder-related lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson?

Johnson & Johnson is facing nearly 40,000 claims as of September 2023 related to its talc-based products, including Baby Powder, that allegedly caused cancer, specifically ovarian cancer. These lawsuits allege that the talc-based products contain asbestos, and the company was aware of the risks but failed to warn its customers. Some plaintiffs received substantial settlements, while others were unsuccessful.

What products from Johnson & Johnson are involved in ovarian cancer lawsuits?

Johnson & Johnson’s talc-based products have been named in more than 38,000 lawsuits, alleging they contained asbestos and caused cancers, including ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. Among them are Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower. These lawsuits claim Johnson & Johnson knew its products contained asbestos but failed to warn its customers.

johnson and johnson ovarian cancer lawsuit update

What are the claims in ovarian cancer lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson?

Ovarian cancer lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson revolve around these claims: 

  • Failure to warn. Johnson & Johnson knew about the potential link between talcum powder use for personal hygiene and an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer but did not provide adequate warnings on their product labels or through marketing. 
  • Negligence. Johnson & Johnson was negligent in manufacturing and marketing their talcum powder products without taking adequate steps to ensure their safety. This negligence allegedly includes not testing talcum powder for asbestos contamination and not warning consumers of potential health risks. 
  • Product liability. Johnson & Johnson’s talc-based products were defective and unreasonably harmful for their intended use. 
  • Causation. Plaintiffs developed ovarian cancer after using Johnson & Johnson’s talc-based products. 
  • Damages. Compensation for plaintiffs’ medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and, in cases of wrongful death, funeral expenses and loss of companionship

2024 Updates in Ovarian Cancer Lawsuits Against Johnson & Johnson

Women and families across the country continue to file talcum powder lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson. Each raises similar claims that Johnson’s Baby Powder or Shower-to-Shower body powder caused the development of ovarian cancer. The United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation has decided to centralize the cases before one federal judge in New Jersey for coordinated pretrial proceedings. Pending talcum powder cancer cases throughout the federal court system were sent to the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. Judge Hon. Michael A. Shipp oversees the multidistrict litigation (MDL 2738). As of September 2023, Johnson & Johnson faced 47,346 talcum powder lawsuits in the MDL.

Here are the latest ovarian cancer lawsuit updates:

  • September 21, 2023: MDL Judge Shipp will hold a “science day” in November or December.
  • September 18, 2023: In just two months since the bankruptcy stay was lifted, around 10,000 new talcum powder cancer lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson. There are now 47,346 pending cases in the talc MDL, up from 37,542 three months ago.
  • September 12, 2023: Johnson & Johnson is suing Dr. Jacqueline Moline for her article linking talc to mesothelioma. She argues her conclusions are protected under the First Amendment.
  • August 23, 2023: Plaintiffs are intensifying efforts to move forward with trials nationwide following the rejection of Johnson & Johnson’s second talc bankruptcy.
  • August 16, 2023: The talc class action (MDL 2738) now houses 37,700 talc powder lawsuits, making it the second-largest MDL in the country.
  • August 15, 2023: Johnson & Johnson’s second attempt to pull talcum powder liabilities into bankruptcy was denied.
  • August 4, 2023: Judge Kaplan denied a motion seeking to disqualify attorney Randi S. Ellis from serving as the future claims representative for talcum powder mesothelioma patients.
  • August 1, 2023: Johnson & Johnson’s second attempt to force talcum powder claims into bankruptcy was rejected. 
  • July 31, 2023: Debate continues over whether talc plaintiffs should accept Johnson & Johnson’s $8.9 billion global settlement offer.
  • July 19, 2023: A California man was awarded $18.8 million for developing mesothelioma from Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder.
  • July 11, 2023: Closing arguments were presented in the terminal mesothelioma lawsuit in Oakland against Johnson & Johnson.
  • July 10, 2023: Johnson & Johnson’s bankrupt talc unit filed a lawsuit against three doctors, alleging they damaged its business through articles linking talc to mesothelioma.
  • July 1, 2023: The bankruptcy trial ended.
  • June 29, 2023: Johnson & Johnson’s defense in the Oakland baby powder mesothelioma trial began.
  • June 28, 2023: Executives of Johnson & Johnson’s bankrupt talc subsidiary were interrogated during a trial regarding the dismissal of their revised Chapter 11 case.
  • June 27, 2023: The plaintiff offered his testimony in the Oakland baby powder mesothelioma trial.
  • June 14, 2023: The bankruptcy judge is delaying the dismissal of Johnson & Johnson’s second bankruptcy attempt.
  • June 2, 2023: Technical difficulties led to an abrupt pause in the defense attorneys’ opening statement in the Oakland asbestos talc trial.
  • June 1, 2023: The first trial related to alleged asbestos in Johnson & Johnson’s cosmetic talc products began.
  • May 31, 2023: Johnson & Johnson’s second Chapter 11 filing for talcum powder claims was challenged.
  • May 24, 2023: A dispute unfolded over the proposed appointment of Randi Ellis as a future claims representative in the second talcum powder bankruptcy case.
  • May 22, 2023: Jury selection began in California state court for the first trial related to alleged asbestos in Johnson & Johnson’s cosmetic talc products.
  • May 17, 2023: The talc settlement offer faced scrutiny as plaintiffs and their lawyers debated its adequacy. 
  • May 15, 2023: An advocacy group sought to sue Johnson & Johnson for discontinuing a funding agreement with its talc liability unit, alleging it was a strategic ploy.
  • May 10, 2023: Parties were ordered to participate in new settlement mediation sessions regarding Johnson & Johnson’s $8.9 billion talc settlement proposal.
  • May 5, 2023: Talc supplier Whittaker, Clark & Daniels filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to asbestos-related lawsuits.
  • May 4, 2023: Johnson & Johnson was ordered to resume settlement talks with lawyers who rejected the $8.9 billion settlement offer.
  • May 3, 2023: Cancer victims urged the Third Circuit to halt the bankruptcy of Johnson & Johnson subsidiary LTL Management LLC.
  • May 1, 2023: LTL Management filed for bankruptcy and proposed an $8.9 billion settlement for talcum powder claims.
  • April 28, 2023: The $8.9 billion baby powder class action settlement proposal faced scrutiny.
  • April 21, 2023: Johnson & Johnson attempted a second talc bankruptcy, facing challenges regarding its validity. 
  • April 10, 2023: Questions surrounded Johnson & Johnson’s $8.9 billion settlement offer.
  • April 4, 2023: The Third Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Johnson & Johnson’s request to continue the automatic bankruptcy stay.
  • March 31, 2023: Three new lawsuits were filed in the MDL.
  • March 22, 2023: The Third Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the dismissal of LTL Management’s bankruptcy case.
  • March 16, 2023: Seven new cases were added to the Talcum powder class action MDL.
  • February 23, 2023: Congressman Steve Cohen called for a federal investigation into healthcare costs associated with Johnson & Johnson talcum powder products.
  • February 17, 2023: New talcum powder lawsuits resumed after a year-long bar due to the bankruptcy stay.
  • February 15, 2023: Bankruptcy Judge Michael Kaplan planned to dismiss Johnson & Johnson’s bankruptcy case. 
  • February 3, 2023: The baby powder class action lawsuit got a new judge after Judge Freda L. Wolfson’s retirement. Judge Michael A. Shipp, who was nominated to the federal bench in 2012, replaced Judge Wolfson. 
  • January 30, 2023: The Third Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed LTL Management LLC’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy, impacting the company’s stock. LTL Management is a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson. 

Key Milestones in Ovarian Cancer Litigation

To provide you with a clearer picture of the progression of ovarian cancer lawsuits, let’s explore some key milestones in recent years:

  • Landmark verdicts. There have been several landmark verdicts against talcum powder manufacturers, including Johnson & Johnson. The rulings brought the issue to light and raised awareness about the potential dangers of talcum powder use.
  • Settlements. In addition to verdicts, settlements have been reached in ovarian cancer Baby Powder lawsuits. These settlements often involve substantial sums of money to compensate affected individuals and their families.
  • Continued litigation. The ovarian cancer litigation is far from over. Thousands of ovarian cancer lawsuits are still pending nationwide. The ongoing litigation highlights the gravity of the issue and the determination of those affected to seek justice. 
  • Scientific research. Scientific research into the link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer continues. New studies and findings may impact the landscape of these lawsuits.
  • Regulatory actions. Regulatory agencies have also already taken notice and investigated the safety of talcum powder products. 

What are the legal steps to take if you've developed ovarian cancer?

The steps to take if you’ve developed ovarian cancer due to talcum powder use are:

  • Consult with a medical professional. Make your health a top priority. Get medical advice and treatment from a cancer specialist.
  • Preserve evidence. If you still have the talcum powder product you used, preserve it as potential evidence. Document the product’s brand, lot number, and purchase date. Additionally, keep records of any medical bills, diagnoses, and treatment plans related to your ovarian cancer.
  • Consult with an attorney. Consult with an ovarian cancer lawsuit attorney who can assess your case and advise on your legal options.
  • Join a class action or file an individual claim. Decide whether you will join an existing ovarian cancer class action lawsuit or file an individual claim with the help of your attorney.
  • Participate in legal proceedings. If you take legal action, you will have to participate in the proceedings, like depositions.
  • Stay informed. Keep yourself informed about the progress of your case, any updates in the legal landscape, and any changes in legislation or regulations related to talcum powder products and ovarian cancer.
  • Consider support groups. Dealing with a cancer diagnosis and a legal battle can be emotionally challenging. Consider joining support groups or seeking counseling to help you cope with the stress and emotions associated with both your health and legal concerns. 

Class Action vs. Individual Lawsuits

The choice between a class action and an individual lawsuit should be made after careful consideration and consultation with your ovarian cancer lawsuit attorney. The decision depends on your unique circumstances. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Number of plaintiffs. If there are many other individuals with similar claims, a class action is more suitable. If the number is smaller, pursuing an individual claim makes more sense.
  • Severity of your case. If your ovarian cancer and its impact on your life are particularly severe, an individual lawsuit allows you to seek compensation that better reflects your circumstances.
  • Control and involvement. Consider how much control and involvement you want in the legal process. Class actions provide less control, while individual lawsuits allow you to make more decisions.
  • Legal representation. Consult with an attorney who specializes in ovarian cancer lawsuits. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation. 

Ovarian Cancer: Legal Assistance and Your Rights

Understanding your rights in the context of ovarian cancer lawsuits is crucial. Some of your key rights include:

  • The right to consult with an attorney who specializes in ovarian cancer cases. 
  • The right to take part in legal proceedings. 
  • The right to seek justice and compensation for your damages due to the negligence of talcum powder manufacturers.

Do not feel alone in your cause. Many ovarian cancer patients and families have taken legal action. A network of legal professionals and support groups is also available to help you. 

Seeking Compensation in Ovarian Cancer Lawsuits

If your ovarian cancer is due to talcum powder use, it’s crucial to understand the types of compensation that may be available. Compensation in ovarian cancer lawsuits typically falls into the following categories:

  • Medical expenses. Payment for past and future medical expenses related to the diagnosis and treatment of your ovarian cancer, including doctor’s visits, hospital stays, surgery, and chemotherapy.
  • Pain and suffering. Compensation for your physical and emotional distress caused by the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer.
  • Lost wages and future earnings. Compensation for lost wages and potential future earnings if your ability to work has been affected.
  • Wrongful death. In cases where a loved one has passed away due to ovarian cancer linked to talcum powder use, surviving family members may pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim. It can cover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.
  • Punitive damages. In some cases, the court awards punitive damages to punish the defendant (usually the talcum powder manufacturer) for their negligence or misconduct to deter similar behavior in the future.

How do you pursue compensation?

Pursuing ovarian cancer lawsuit compensation in an involves these steps:

  • Consult an attorney. Consult with an ovarian cancer lawsuit attorney who can assess your case, give legal advice, and guide you through the process.
  • Gather medical records. Your attorney will help you collect and organize all relevant medical records, including diagnoses, treatment plans, and expenses incurred.
  • Build your case. Your legal team will work to build a strong case by investigating the link between your ovarian cancer and talcum powder use, identifying witnesses, and gathering evidence.
  • Negotiate or litigate. Your lawyer and the defendant’s will try to settle your ovarian cancer case. If they fail, your case goes to court.
  • Attend court proceedings. You will participate in court proceedings if your ovarian cancer case goes to trial.
  • Receive compensation. Get compensation based on the court’s decision or the terms of a settlement.

What factors can affect compensation?

Factors that can influence the amount of compensation you receive in an ovarian cancer lawsuit include:

  • The defendant’s willingness to settle. 
  • The expertise and negotiation skills of your legal team.  
  • The jurisdiction where your case is filed. 
  • The severity of your ovarian cancer and its impact on your life. 
  • The strength of your case and the evidence presented.

Who is eligible for the ovarian cancer lawsuit?

The eligibility criteria may differ slightly depending on the law firm handling the case. To be eligible for the ovarian cancer lawsuit:

  • Women who used a talcum powder product, ideally Johnson & Johnson-made.
  • Women diagnosed with ovarian cancer between 2000 and the present. A biopsy result indicating that your cancer may be related to baby powder is advantageous.
  • Women diagnosed with ovarian cancer between the ages of 22 and 65.
  • Women with specific genetic mutations (BRCA gene) will likely be unable to sue. Current medical science can’t prove their genetic makeup or if asbestos particles are behind their diagnosis.

What is the ovarian cancer lawsuit settlement?

In April 2023, Johnson & Johnson offered an $8.9 billion ovarian cancer lawsuit settlement to thousands of people who claimed its talcum powder products caused them to develop ovarian cancer and mesothelioma after using them for years. The proposed settlement would be paid out over a 25-year period through a subsidiary that filed for bankruptcy to enable the $8.9 billion trust. If approved by the bankruptcy court, the agreement will settle all current and future claims involving Johnson & Johnson products containing talc, such as Baby Powder. Johnson & Johnson faces nearly 40,000 claims related to its talc-based products as of September 2023. 

What is the average payout for the talcum powder lawsuit?

There is no specific average payout for a talcum powder lawsuit, as the settlement amount depends on various factors, including lost earning capacity, lost quality of life, medical bills, physical and financial damages, and the extent of the disease. Based on the proposed April 2023 settlement and previous settlements reached in verdicts, talcum powder lawsuits are estimated to settle for thousands or millions of dollars, depending on the facts of the individual case. 

ovarian cancer talcum powder lawsuit

Who qualifies for the talcum powder lawsuit?

Women who used a cosmetic or commercial talcum powder product and later developed ovarian cancer or mesothelioma may qualify to file a talcum powder lawsuit and receive compensation. Family members or spouses who lost someone to ovarian cancer or mesothelioma caused by talcum powder use may also qualify to sue. The plaintiff must demonstrate they used talcum powder products on a regular basis prior to getting their cancer diagnosis. 

How long do you have to file an ovarian cancer lawsuit?

Statute of limitations varies by state. When the time limit begins is determined by the specific case. It could be the date you were diagnosed with cancer or the date you discovered your ovarian cancer or mesothelioma was caused by the use talcum powder products. Contact a talc powder cancer attorney for a free case evaluation to determine whether you are within the statute of limitations. 

Notable Talcum Powder Verdicts

July 2023: A California jury awarded 24-year-old Emory Hernandez Valadez $18.8 million. Valadez claimed Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder led him to develop pericardial mesothelioma.

March 2023: A woman who attributed her mesothelioma to the use of asbestos-contaminated talc products was awarded $29.14 million by a South Carolina jury. The lawsuit was against former talc supplier Whittaker, Clark & Daniels.

December 2022: A Los Angeles Superior Court jury awarded Rita Chapman $10 million in compensatory damages in a verdict against Avon Products Inc. Chapman linked her cancer to the use of Avon’s talc-based cosmetics. She was earlier awarded $40 million.

August 2021: A Los Angeles jury awarded Eva Echeverria $417 million. Echeverria claimed Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products caused her ovarian cancer.

June 2021: The US Supreme Court affirmed a $2 billion verdict against Johnson & Johnson in a case involving 22 people in different states who have cancer. The plaintiffs’ attorneys had shown Johnson & Johnson’s prior knowledge and internal discussion of asbestos contamination in its talc products.

September 2019: Douglas Barden, David Etheridge, D’Angela McNeill-George, and Will Ronning were awarded by a New Jersey jury $37.2 million. The plaintiffs blamed their mesothelioma on asbestos contamination in Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower products.

April 2018: In a verdict against Johnson & Johnson and its talc supplier, Imerys Talc, a New Jersey jury awarded $117 million to Stephen Lanzo III and his wife. The plaintiff claimed that the use of Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower caused his mesothelioma. 

Hire Ethen Ostroff Law

If you were diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using talcum powder, seek legal counsel and stay up to date on the latest developments. Ovarian cancer lawsuits remain a critical issue, with ongoing legal battles, settlements, and verdicts shaping the landscape. To effectively navigate the legal process, seek the advice of legal professionals who specialize in ovarian cancer lawsuits.

Choose Ethen Ostroff Law for your ovarian cancer lawsuit because we genuinely care about your well-being and are committed to fighting for your rights. You’re not just a case to us. You are a person with a unique story and experience.

At Ethen Ostroff Law, we provide: 

  • Clear communication.   
  • Compassionate support.  
  • Expertise.  
  • Personalized attention.  
  • Strong legal representation.

Choosing us means partnering with a compassionate and dedicated team that will work tirelessly to obtain the compensation and justice you so rightfully deserve. 

What are you waiting for? Contact Ethen Ostroff Law now at 610-510-8883 ( by calling this number, you consent to receive SMS updates from Ethen Ostroff Law) or Submit Form to get free consultation.

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