Talc is a mineral made of several elements, including silicon, oxygen, and magnesium. It is mined from the earth and ground into a powder form, which is commonly known as talcum powder. Because of its ability to absorb moisture, talcum powder is used in a variety of products, such as baby powder, perfumed body powder, pressed cosmetic powders (eye shadow, face powder, blush), deodorants, condoms, and diaphragms.
For the past several decades, scientists have been researching a link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer. Because talc is mined in the same manner and from the same location as asbestos – a known carcinogen – talcum powder can be contaminated with asbestos. When asbestos enters the body, it can cause inflammation, abnormal cell growth, and cancer. Currently, the American Cancer Society lists talcum powder as a risk factor for ovarian cancer.
Despite these dangers, manufacturers such as Johnson & Johnson, Chanel, Clinique, Mennen, Old Spice, Estee Lauder, and many others have marketed their talcum powder products as being safe for everyone from babies to grandmothers. Johnson & Johnson currently faces tens of thousands of lawsuits alleging that the company knew its talc products could cause cancer but that it did not warn consumers or alert federal regulators.
If you or a loved one developed ovarian cancer after using a talcum powder product, please contact us. You may be entitled to compensation for your loss of wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
