As of July 2019, the U.S. Justice Department is conducting a criminal investigation into J&J’s deceptive marketing practices. Investigators plan to examine documents associated with what Johnson & Johnson officials “knew about any carcinogens in their products.” They also hope to find out whether or not J&J lied to the public about the potential cancer risks of its talc-based products.
Despite conflicting evidence over the safety of talcum powder and whether or not long-term use can lead to ovarian cancer or mesothelioma, thousands of individuals suffering from cancer have come forward to plead their cases against Johnson & Johnson.
Notable Case Happenings
In the past, Johnson & Johnson has been reluctant to settle any product liability lawsuits. Recently, there have been a number of verdicts in favor of plaintiffs claiming years of using the company’s flagship talcum powder products has led to their cancer diagnoses.
The first talcum powder lawsuit was filed in 2009 by Deane Berg, a 49-year-old from South Dakota who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2006. Johnson & Johnson initially offered Berg $1.3 million to settle in court, but with a confidentiality clause attached. Rather than taking the money, Berg rejected the award and instead chose to inform others of the dangers associated with J&J’s talc products. In 2013, Berg received a unanimous verdict in her favor, but unfortunately did not receive compensation.
