March 12, 2014 — At least 20 studies have shown that women who use baby powder (talcum powder) in their groin area are more likely to develop ovarian cancer. The microscopic particles can potentially travel into a woman’s reproductive tract and irritate tissues in the ovaries, which can lead to cancerous cellular changes.
For example, a study published in 2003 found that the risk of ovarian cancer was 33% higher for women who used baby powder. Conclusions were based on a meta-analysis of 16 studies and published in Anticancer Research.
Though the researchers found no causal connection between baby powder and ovarian cancer, a subset of studies found that the risk of ovarian cancer may be up to 60% higher for women who use baby powder.
Even so, the American Cancer Society believes that the risk is low. On average, the lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is 1.4%, so even a 30-60% increase translates to a 1.8-2.2% lifetime risk.
A growing number of women are filing lawsuits alleging that companies like Johnson & Johnson are not warning that baby powder could potentially cause cancer. In October 2013, the company lost a lawsuit filed by 56 year-old Sioux Falls resident Deane Berg, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using baby powder for 30 years.
In fact, researchers have known for years that talc can enter the ovaries. A study published in 1996 by American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology examined ovaries removed from 24 women who did not have cancer. Although only 12 women reported using baby powder, talc was detected in all 24 ovaries.
Do I have a Baby Powder Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting baby powder induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by ovarian cancer after using baby powder or talcum powder, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Product Liability Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
Attention Lawyers: We consider a referral from another law firm to be one of the greatest compliments. If your firm is interested in referring us a case or for us to send you a list of previous award judgments and/or average referral fees, please visit the Lawyer Referral section of our website.
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC has been recognized as one of the nation’s leading plaintiffs' law firms and handles cases in all 50 states. We are very proud of our legal achievements, but equally self-respecting of our firm's reputation for providing personal attention to each and every client we represent.
