For decades, talcum powder was a common household item for American women, who were sold on the freshness promised by the companies marketing this product. What remained unknown was the increased risk for ovarian cancer with frequent long-term use in the genital area, caused by talc contaminated with asbestos. James F. Humphreys & Associates, L.C. can help you fight big businesses who sold their talc products knowing that they may contain asbestos.
Talcum Powder: What’s the Problem?
Talcum powder, which was frequently marketed as “baby powder” or “body powder,” became popular because of its fresh scent and gentleness to the skin. Talcum powder is made from talc, a naturally occurring substance that is sometimes contaminated with asbestos. In 1976, the Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrances Association (CTFA) recognized the presence of asbestos in talc products and issued guidance that asbestos should be undetectable in cosmetic products. In 1989, asbestos became strictly regulated by the EPA.
Many women used talcum powder for the genital area as part of their daily routine and talcum powder was also often used to prevent diaper rashes in babies. This common household item was generally thought to be safe, and manufacturers did not inform the public of any known asbestos contamination in their products.
The Breakthrough Talcum Powder Investigation
For years, talcum powder lawsuits were brought against large manufacturers, primarily Johnson & Johnson, for mesothelioma and ovarian cancer caused by suspected asbestos contamination of talc-based powders. However, these cases could not prove that Johnson & Johnson was aware of the asbestos problem and intentionally failed to inform consumers.
This changed in 2018, when a key investigation by Reuters uncovered evidence of decades of Johnson & Johnson memos that showed company knowledge of asbestos contamination. The company never informed the public of the trace amounts of asbestos in talcum powder, and the company also failed to inform regulatory bodies, like the FDA.
Ovarian Cancer: What to Know
Ovarian cancer is typically diagnosed during a routine exam or when a patient has persistent ovarian cancer symptoms, such as bloating, abdominal pain, trouble eating or urinary problems. Once diagnosed, ovarian cancer has several effective therapies, including surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Treatment options depend on whether the cancer is localized to the ovaries or has spread throughout the abdomen.
Ovarian cancer can lead to loss of fertility or can be fatal, if the cancer is not caught early. At James F. Humphreys & Associates, L.C., we fight back against companies that fail to adequately inform consumers of potential health risks. If you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and have a history of talcum powder use, fill out our contact form or contact us today for a free consultation.
Toll Free: +1 (800) 763-4500
Email: jhumphreys@jfhumphreys.com
Sources:
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/treating.html
- https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/fertility-and-sexual-side-effects/fertility-and-women-with-cancer/how-cancer-treatments-affect-fertility.html
- https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/johnsonandjohnson-cancer/
