New Talcum Powder Trial Will Take Place in California

Johnson& Johnson’s popular talcum powder product has recently fallen under intense scrutiny as women have come forward claiming the powder caused them to develop cancer. While numerous trials have been held throughout the U.S., there is soon to be a trial held in California, the first in the golden state. The trial is to include over 300 injured women who claim they developed ovarian cancer after using talc powder regularly. Judge Maren Nelson of the Los Angeles Superior Court says the trial shall be held in early July of this year.

Talc powder has been popular for decades because of its ability to absorb moisture and prevent rashes and chafing. In its natural form, talcum contains asbestos, which is very dangerous for humans, especially if inhaled. However, since the 1970’s talcum powder has been asbestos-free and was assumed to be harmless until women came forward claiming continued use of talc powder led to the development of ovarian cancer. There have been studies conducted to study this possibility, and some have confirmed that the talc powder can travel through the vagina, uterus and fallopian tubes to cause cancer in the ovaries.

One plaintiff in the upcoming California trial, Eva Echeverria, was one of 7 women who filed suits in the LA Superior Court in July 2016. The women claimed they developed ovarian cancer after regularly using talc powder for years, as directed by the manufacturer. Ms. Echeverria’s lawsuit requested compensation for the damages caused as a result of her ovarian cancer. The lawsuit also said the talcum powder product was unreasonably dangerous. Due to her failing health, Echeverria requested that the trial be held as quickly as possible.

Other lawsuits involving talcum powder resulted in verdicts favoring the injured women. For example, a case in Missouri was awarded $55 million for damages, and an injured woman from St. Louis was awarded $72 million. However, other cases have failed to provide adequate proof, leading to victories for Johnson & Johnson. Still, attorneys representing the talc plaintiffs in California, argue that there are incriminating documents that prove Johnson & Johnson learned years ago about the potential cancer risk of talc powder use, though the company refused to warn the public.

If you developed ovarian cancer after regular use of talcum powder, our firm can help. Contact Frantz Law Group, APLC to begin building your case today!