Does J&J’s Baby Powder Cause Cancer?

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Disputes over the safety of Johnson & Johnson’s signature baby powder continue as more than 14,000 consumers have sued the corporation over the last several years. Plaintiffs are claiming the company’s talc-based products are contaminated with asbestos and can lead to the development of different forms of cancer, including ovarian cancer and peritoneal mesothelioma. Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower Body Powder products, specifically, are connected to several cases where plaintiffs allege that years of use have led to their cancer diagnoses.

Talcum powder can be found in a variety of cosmetic and personal hygiene products, including lotion, powdered makeup, and deodorant. J&J’s Baby Powder is historically used to treat diaper rash in infants, but it is also used by adult women for a variety of purposes. Women who are filing lawsuits against J&J as a result of their ovarian cancer diagnoses are claiming their cancers were caused by years of powder use on or near their genital area. Individuals who are suing J&J for its products have also contracted peritoneal mesothelioma, which can be caused by the inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers found in talc.

Evidence Backing Cancer Links

Numerous studies have been conducted on the safety of J&J’s talcum powder products and whether or not they are linked to the development of cancer. This concern was initially investigated in 1971 when researchers identified talc particles in ovarian tumors. Another study administered in 1982 assessed females with ovarian cancer who had regularly used talcum powder, and discovered a possible association between their cancer diagnoses and talc use.