Talc is an over-the-counter powder used in the personal hygiene industry to absorb moisture. Talc is used in body powders to prevent diaper rash, chafing and body odors. Talc is also used in cosmetics such as blush, eye shadow, foundation, and loose and pressed face powder.
History: Talc has been used for hygiene since 1892. The product was marketed to midwives and mothers. Most people associate the smell of talcum powder with the scent of babies.
The first talcum powder lawsuit was filed in 2009 in South Dakota. In 2016 Johnson and Johnson was found liable of negligence, conspiracy and failure to warn women about the risk of cancer. In two separate Missouri suits Johnson and Johnson was ordered to pay $127,000,000 in damages. An internal memorandum was used as evidence proving Johnson and Johnson knew about the link between talc and ovarian cancer. However, they did not disclose this risk to the public. There are currently more than 5,000 suits in state and federal courts against Johnson and Johnson. The claims have been that Johnson and Johnson knew about the risk of using talcum powder and did not warn the public. Since the original talcum powder suit, Johnson and Johnson juries have awarded plaintiff’s $725,000,000 with $630,000, 000 in punitive damages.
Mild Side Effects: Cough, Difficulty breathing, Eye inflammation, Sneezing, Vomiting
Serious Side Effects: Cervical cancer, Eye granulomas, Lung cancer, Lung lesions, Respiratory failure, Uterine cancer
Manufacturer: Johnson & Johnson
