Ovarian Cancer Caused by Talcum Powder FAQ

The use of talcum powder has been linked to a serious side effect in women and an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Gynecological studies have shown that women who regularly use talcum powder around their groin area have a twenty-to-thirty percent (20% to 30%) higher risk of developing ovarian cancer over time. Ovarian cancer a deadly form of cancer and is the fifth-most deadly cancer among women.

Talcum powder's principal ingredient is talc, a soft mineral made of oxygen, silicon, and magnesium. Many skincare-product companies use talc because it helps keep skin dry and smooth. For decades, product manufacturers have produced talc products for women to use in their genital area and to assist with rashes upon their bodies. Talcum powder is considered a cosmetic product, so it does not fall under the ambit of the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) regulatory authority. Warnings about talcum powder were not required as strictly as they would have been for, example, medications.

When women use talcum powder on their genitals-the precise use companies have marketed to women for decades-particles of talc can enter their bodies and travel up to their ovaries, causing significant inflammation and leading to the development of cancer.

Claimants in many of the lawsuits that have arisen regarding talcum powder claim that Johnson & Johnson, a leading manufacturer of Shower to Shower and Baby Powder products, failed to warn customers of talcum powder dangers. In the 1970s, some researchers began finding talcum powder located within ovarian tumors. Studies starting in 1982 showed the same result.

Researchers at Johnson & Johnson were aware of a 1982 study that showed a link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer. Nonetheless, Johnson & Johnson did not warn customers about the dangers of using talcum powder. As a result, thousands of customers were diagnosed with ovarian cancer due to Johnson & Johnson's unwillingness to act on the data.

Every case is unique, and the best thing you can do if you think you have a case is to speak with an experienced product liability attorney. Whether you have a case worth pursuing will depend on your history of talcum powder use and how strongly you can link your history of use to your ovarian cancer. Many personal injury plaintiffs are able to obtain compensation for their ovarian cancer diagnosis, including medical expenses and lost time at work. Successful plaintiffs can also recover damages for pain and suffering caused by their symptoms and treatment. If a loved one passed away due to ovarian cancer, family members may be able to recover compensation for funeral expenses, the loss of society and companionship provided by the loved one, and other damages.

Ovarian cancer is one of the most dangerous types of cancer because it often goes undetected until it has reached an advanced stage. As the cancer progresses, the signs become more noticeable, including the following:

• Loss of appetite;
• Frequent urination;
• Abdominal pain;
• Swelling of the abdomen, pelvis, or other adjacent areas;
• Constipation;
• Rapid or significant weight loss;
• Pelvic pain.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is critical that you see a doctor right away. A medical professional will be able to undertake diagnostic testing that can confirm whether or not you have ovarian cancer.