Baby Powder and Ovarian Cancer

Baby powder is a product that many people consider to be harmless, however, there is an emerging link between baby powder and ovarian cancer. In late May of this year, a St. Louis jury awarded $110.5 million to a woman who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using baby powder. This was the fourth largest lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson that found there was some link between the use of baby powder and development of ovarian cancer. When people use a product, they should not have to fear for their health. If you have developed ovarian cancer after prolonged usage of baby powder, get in touch with a qualified West Palm Beach ovarian cancer lawyer that can work tirelessly to build your case.

What is Baby Powder Made Of?

Baby powder is primarily comprised of Talc, which is a mineral that is mined all around the world. The mineral is then ground into a powder, which helps to absorb moisture from the body and reduces friction. This mineral powder has been used extensively in household products, from baby powder to cosmetic products, including body and facial powders.

Some talcum-based products previously contained the harmful chemical asbestos, which is known to cause cancer in the lungs when it is inhaled. Fortunately, talcum powder has been free of asbestos-based chemicals since 1970. However, there is a significant debate in the medical community as to whether or not there is a link between baby powder and ovarian cancer. Specifically, whether there is a direct correlation with increased rates of ovarian cancer.

Link Between Baby Powder and Ovarian Cancer

The International Agency for Research on Cancer currently lists some talc-based body powders, such as baby powder, as increasing the chance of developing ovarian cancer when it is applied between the legs. However, they note that there is a modest but unusually consistent excess in risk.

This is in contrast with the American Cancer Society, which has not reached a conclusion and does not support a proposition either way. They note that many studies have reached inconclusive evidence and that research is still being conducted in this area.

Numerous lawsuits have been filed across the country and several large verdicts have concluded that baby powder companies knew there was an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer when their products were used for feminine hygiene. These cases claim that the companies failed to warn consumers of the risk, placing their health in jeopardy.

Contact an Ovarian Cancer Lawyer

When using a product like baby powder, you should not have to worry about your safety or your health. The anxiety of an ovarian cancer diagnosis coupled with the anxiety of paying for cancer treatments, can be overwhelming. You should not have to face this alone. If you have developed ovarian cancer after using baby powder or another talc-based product, contact a West Palm Beach ovarian cancer lawyer today to discuss your case. A thorough attorney can examine the existing evidence, and put the time and resources necessary to build your case. Contact a West Palm Beach ovarian cancer lawyer that can help you recover the damages you deserve.