Talcum Powder FAQs

Talcum powder comes from talc, which is a mineral made up of elements including oxygen, magnesium, and silicon. Talcum powder is created after this mineral is crushed. In powder form, it can absorb moisture and help reduce friction, which is the reason it became popular for cosmetic and hygienic use.

Talc is often found in baby powder, adult body powder, facial powder, foot powder, and powder applied to the genital area. It may also be found in other consumer products, including deodorant, tampons, and condoms. Talcum powder is most notably present in certain Johnson & Johnson products, including Baby Powder® and Shower to Shower®.

Numerous studies associate the use of talcum powder with ovarian cancer. Studies on the long term use of talcum powder for hygienic and cosmetic purposes have shown that this use can increase the risk for developing ovarian cancer by as much as 30%. Research has been conducted by well-known organizations such as the American Cancer Society, National Institute of Health, and World Health Organization.

Studies have shown that talcum powder can cause ovarian cancer in two different ways. First, talc particles have been found inside ovarian tissue and within ovarian cancer cells, which suggests that the powder has entered through the vagina, the cervix, the uterus, the fallopian tube, and into the ovaries. Second, some women have inflammation due to prolonged talc exposure. Scientists suspect that this sustained inflammation and the inflammatory process triggers the development of ovarian cancer. This is the unfortunate result of long-term use of talc-based products. Many women still use talc daily for hygienic and cosmetic purposes.

According to recent studies, as many as 2,200 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year due to usage of products involving talcum powder. According to a recent study conducted by the National Institute of Health, use of talcum powder can cause up to a 30% increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Symptoms for ovarian cancer can include bloating, nausea, abdominal pain, changes in bladder and bowel movement, changes in appetite, and overall fatigue. Women may also experience feelings of pressure in the lower back or pelvis as well as an increased need to urinate.

If you experience any of the symptoms above, it is critical to consult with a doctor or medical professional as soon as possible. Doctors may be able to link the cancer to talcum powder by identifying talc particles in ovarian tissue.

If you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and have used talc-based products, it is important to consult with a qualified attorney as soon as possible. The personal injury attorneys at Nahon, Saharovich & Trotz can evaluate your case through a free initial consultation and begin taking steps to protect your legal rights. If a loved one has died as a result of ovarian cancer, surviving family members may be able to bring a wrongful death claim.

All states have specific statutes of limitation within which these types of claims must be brought. It is important to consult with an attorney who can protect your legal rights as soon as possible.

The law firm of Nahon, Saharovich & Trotz handles all cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that we only receive our fee if we collect monetary damages on your behalf, and the fee comes out of the recovery.