Johnson & Johnson has been ordered to pay a victim of the company’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower products $55 million. The woman claims that after using Johnson & Johnson talcum powder products for decades, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
A jury in St. Louis awarded the woman, whose ovarian cancer is now in remission, $5 million in damages and $50 million in punitive damages. Punitive damages are often awarded with an intention to punish the defendant and discourage others from engaging in similar conduct that could lead to harm.
More than 1,200 talcum powder lawsuits have been filed against Johnson & Johnson alleging the company failed to warn consumers about the risks in using its talc-based products.
Despite the loss, Johnson & Johnson maintains that its products are safe. A Johnson & Johnson spokeswoman told Reuters the verdict contradicts research that confirms the safety of cosmetic talc. The company plans to appeal the verdict.
Though the company believes its products are safe, several studies have said otherwise. Dating back to the 1980s, studies have found a link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer. In some cases of ovarian cancer, doctors found traces of talc embedded in the cancerous tissue. A 1997 internal memo from a Johnson & Johnson medical consultant also declared that anyone denying the risk of using talc for feminine hygiene and ovarian cancer is denying obvious evidence.
The verdict in St. Louis is the second lawsuit in which damages were awarded. Last month, the family of a woman who died from ovarian cancer linked to her use of Johnson & Johnson talcum powder was awarded $72 million.
Phillips Law Group is experienced in handling defective product claims and have obtained millions in verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and you believe it was caused by the use of talcum powder, contact our attorneys. You may be entitled to compensation.
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