Talcum Powder Lawsuit: Guide & Latest Updates (2025)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- There are 57,624 talcum powder lawsuits currently in process.
- Johnson and Johnson offered a $6.5 billion talcum powder settlement.
- Time is of the essence due to Johnson and Johnson’s bankruptcy.
Talcum, a finely powdered form of talc, is widely recognized for its ability to absorb moisture and reduce friction. It is a primary ingredient in cosmetics, personal hygiene products and baby care. This household staple for generations has now become the epicenter of controversy.
Over the past years, thousands of consumers across the United States have filed talcum lawsuits claiming they or their loved ones developed illnesses caused by talc-containing products due to asbestos contamination. The lawsuits claim that manufacturers needed to sufficiently warn consumers of these potential health risks despite growing evidence and internal knowledge of the dangers. This issue has led to thousands of cases filed against several major manufacturers, including Johnson & Johnson.
If you or someone you love is dealing with mesothelioma, ovarian cancer or other illnesses caused by talcum powder use, ConsumerShield can help you. We understand the difficulties of battling health conditions like these and are committed to helping you during this difficult time.
We can review your case and help you understand if it makes sense to pursue a lawsuit or join a class action against Johnson & Johnson or other manufacturers of talcum powder. Our team can connect you with the right experts so you can pursue the monetary compensation you deserve and get your life back on track.
Lawsuit Updates
- Warren Reintroduces Bankruptcy Reform Bill
- J&J Baby Powder Lawsuits Paused Until March
- Talc MDL Adds 3 Cases, Focus Shifts to Settlement
Free Talcum Powder Lawsuit Case Review!
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Talcum Powder & Ovarian Cancer
Talcum is in almost everything. That fact is why the link between it and cancer is so concerning.
What is Talcum Powder?
Talcum, the main component of talcum powder, primarily comprises magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. Its most prominent use is as a personal care product applied to the skin, commonly used to absorb moisture, reduce friction, and prevent chafing. Talcum’s unique properties make it incredibly versatile, finding application across several industries, including cosmetics, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and more.
Talcum is a primary ingredient in:
- Baby powder. Known for its gentle and absorbent qualities, talcum is a staple in baby powders, used to prevent diaper rash and keep an infant’s skin dry and soft.
- Body and facial powders. Talcum provides the base for many products designed to absorb excess moisture and provide a smooth, matte finish for the skin.
- Cosmetics. Talcum helps achieve a matte and velvety appearance when used in cosmetics such as eyeshadow, highlighter, and contour palettes.
- Plastics and ceramics. Its ability to enhance a material’s texture, stability, and thermal and electrical resistance makes talc a critical component in manufacturing various plastic compounds, ceramics, and industrial coatings.
- Paints. Talcum is a filler in paint production, enhancing properties like opacity, sheen, and stability.
- Pharmaceutical. In the pharmaceutical industry, talcum lubricates processes in medication production. It can also serve as an inactive ingredient to improve the texture of certain drugs or as a glidant, enhancing the flow properties of powdered substances.
Research Regarding Talcum Powder Safety
However, talcum is also questionable. The regulation of talcum powder has been a subject of ongoing scrutiny.
For years, research established a link between talcum and potential asbestos contamination. In 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tested talc-containing cosmetic products for asbestos. It discovered that nine out of 52 samples showed the presence of asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral known to cause cancer.
Illness related to talcum powder use include:
- Ovarian Cancer. A 2016 study published in the National Library of Medicine analyzed case-control data collected over 16 years and found that women who regularly used talc in the genital area had a 33% higher risk of developing ovarian cancer than those who didn’t.
- Respiratory diseases and lung cancer. Talcum powder, if inhaled over the long term, can cause respiratory difficulties and chronic lung disease, also known as pulmonary talcosis and lung cancer. It is essential to watch out for talcum powder poisoning symptoms for those inhaling it over long periods.
- Mesothelioma. Most notably, asbestos fibers in older versions of talcum powder could lead to mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer affecting the lining of the lung or abdomen.
Cervical cancer. Exposure to talcum powder may cause cervical cancer in the same way it causes ovarian cancer. Using it near the genital region allows cancerous elements to reach the reproductive system. However, this issue requires more research.
What is the Talcum Powder Lawsuit?
The cancer links to talcum powder lead to lawsuits by those suffering conditions from its use. Claims pursue damages after victims developed ovarian cancer. These claims are part of a multi-district litigation in the U.S. District Court of New Jersey.
As of July 2024, Johnson & Johnson faces 57,624 lawsuits involving talcum powder and cancer. These numbers do not include claims covered by a $6.5 billion lawsuit bankruptcy settlement. That settlement also covers claims by distributors who suffered losses when Johnson & Johnson denied the cancer link with talcum powder.
This case continues to move forward, especially since the World Health Organization confirmed the cancer risk with talcum powder. Johnson & Johnson continues to lose ground on its defense strategy. Mere denial of the cancer link no longer stands in light of current research.
Is It Too Late to File a Johnson and Johnson Talcum Powder Lawsuit?
The courts did not report a talcum powder lawsuit deadline. Cases progressed with new claims, settlements, and continuing developments with the Johnson and Johnson bankruptcy. There remains controversy as Johnson and Johnson fights with its previous lawyers and faces accusations of abusing the bankruptcy system.
The best course of action is to file a claim sooner rather than later as courts look to wrap up the MDL. ConsumerShield can help you start the process by connecting you with an experienced attorney who can evaluate your claim. Start by filling out our contact form.
Talcum Powder Lawsuit Knowledge Base
Read the latest information on Talcum Powder Lawsuit and find answers to your questions. Currently there are 4 topics about Talcum Powder Lawsuit Lawsuits.
Settlements & Payouts
How to File
Frequently Asked Questions
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The current status of talcum powder lawsuits sees several manufacturers of talc-containing products, including Johnson & Johnson, facing numerous ongoing cases. While settlements have been reached in some instances, others continue to be in varying stages of litigation. It is important for those considering or pursuing a talcum lawsuit to stay informed about the latest updates and legal developments. Here at ConsumerShield, we provide consumers across the U.S. with the guidance they need to understand their legal rights and inform them of the status of talcum powder litigation.
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Typically, those eligible to file a lawsuit or join class action include individuals who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, and certain other illnesses and also have a history of using talcum powder. Family members who have lost a loved one to these cancers and believe talcum powder may be a contributing factor may also be eligible to pursue legal action.
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The length of time it takes to settle a talcum lawsuit varies widely and can depend on factors such as the strength of the evidence, the specific details of the case, the number of plaintiffs involved, and the willingness of the defendant to negotiate. Some cases can be resolved in a matter of months, while others may take several years, including the possibility of appeals processes. During litigation, plaintiffs will be expected to go through various stages, including discovery and pre-trial motions.
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You can provide evidence such as purchase receipts, product containers, or medical records showing talcum powder usage to prove that you used it.
