Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer: What Every Patient Needs to Know (and How to Seek Justice)

Introduction

For decades, women across the U.S. used talcum powder as part of their daily routine — often trusting brands like Johnson & Johnson. Only in recent years have patients learned about the connection between talc and ovarian cancer. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, you may be wondering: Am I eligible for a lawsuit? How much compensation is possible? What should I do next?

This guide breaks down the science, the lawsuits, and the steps you can take today.

What Is the Link Between Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer?

• Studies since the 1970s suggest talc particles, when applied to the genital area, may travel into the ovaries, triggering inflammation and cancer.

• Key evidence:

  • 1971 Study finding talc in the ovaries

  • Many reports in the medical literature for decades.

  • A 2016 study in Epidemiology found a 33% increased risk among regular talc users.

  • The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies genital use of talc as carcinogenic

  • 2015: Federal Register publishes a ban on powdered surgical gloves. Friedman publishes on low-level constitutional mosaicism in BRCA1. Frey publishes "Rescreening for Genetic Mutations."

  • 2016: Cramer, Vitonis, and Terry et al. publish "The association between talc use and ovarian cancer," finding a persistent positive association. Schildkraut et al. publish on the association between body powder use and ovarian cancer in African American women. Pira et al. publish an "Updated mortality study of a cohort of asbestos textile workers."

  • 2017: Fantale publishes on prevalence and spectrum of germline variants. Ferrante publishes on the Italian pool of asbestos workers cohorts.

  • Egilman's "Review of Talc Industry's Influence on Federal Regulation" states that J&J products found 2-5% chrysotile in Baby Powder and Shower to Shower, and 4% tremolite in Medicated Powder.

  • American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology publishes its "Guide to Learning." O'Brien, Wentzensen, et al. publish on "Intimate Care Prods and Hormone-Related Cancers (Sisters' Study)."

  • January 6, 2020: The US FDA's Interagency Working Group on Asbestos in Consumer Products (IWGACP) issues "Preliminary Recommendations on Testing Methods for Asbestos in Talc and Consumer Products Containing Talc."

  • May 19, 2020: Johnson & Johnson announces it will end talc-based baby powder sales in North America.

  • July 25, 2023: EPA publishes a final rule requiring reporting of asbestos content, stating that asbestos causes ovarian cancer.

  • 2024: Chang et al. publish on personal care products and hormone-sensitive cancers in the Sister Study.

  • Fitzgerald, Sean M. publishes "Resolving Asbestos and Ultrafine Particulate Definitions with Carcinogenicity."

  • IARC Monographs Working Group publishes "Carcinogenicity of talc and acrylonitrile," classifying acrylonitrile as carcinogenic to humans. The Division of Intramural Research NAEHS Council Update mentions LonP1 targeting PolG as a potential therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.

  • December 27, 2024: FDA publishes "Testing Methods for Detecting Asbestos in Talc," proposing to require testing of talc-containing cosmetic products using standardized methods (PLM and TEM/EDS/SAED) to detect and identify asbestos

  
  

• Thousands of lawsuits allege Johnson & Johnson failed to warn consumers.

Who Qualifies for a Talc Lawsuit?

You may be eligible if:

• You were diagnosed with ovarian cancer (epithelial, serous, mucinous, or endometrioid).

• You used talc-based baby powder or body powder for years.

• You have medical documentation of your diagnosis.

Note: Family members of women who passed away may also bring claims.

Johnson & Johnson Talc Lawsuits: The 2025 Update

• Over 50,000 lawsuits have been filed nationwide.

• J&J has attempted to escape claims through bankruptcy, but courts continue to push back, trials moving forward

• Some juries have already awarded millions to plaintiffs.

Key takeaway: Cases are still moving, and now is a critical time to file.

How Much Is a Talc Ovarian Cancer Case Worth?

• Settlements vary depending on medical history, extent of cancer, and talc exposure.

• National settlements are expected, but women who file now may be positioned for stronger compensation.

What Evidence Do You Need?

• Proof of talc product use ( testimony from patient, family/friends).

• Medical records confirming ovarian cancer diagnosis.

• Timeline of talc use (how long, how often).

Your lawyer will help build this evidence, even if you no longer have the product packaging.

FAQs

Q: Is talcum powder still sold in the U.S.?

A: Johnson & Johnson discontinued its talc-based baby powder in North America in 2020 and worldwide in 2023, switching to cornstarch. It is still available on the internet through third party sellers.

Q: What if my ovarian cancer was years ago?

A: You may still qualify; deadlines vary by state. Don’t wait to speak with an attorney.

Q: Do I pay anything upfront?

A: No. Most firms, including ours, work on contingency — we only get paid if you win.

Why Choose Our Firm

At Cohen, Placitella & Roth, we have decades of experience holding corporations accountable. We’ve fought for women and families harmed by defective products and environmental toxins, and we’re here to stand by your side. We have been litigating talc injury claims since 2008 amongst the first in the country.

• National reach, local compassion

• Proven trial record against J&J and Big Pharma

• Dedicated support for patients and families

Next Steps

1. Contact us for a free case evaluation.

2. We’ll review your medical history and talc use.

3. If eligible, we’ll file your claim and guide you every step of the way.