Talcum powder has been found to cause ovarian cancer when used by women for perineal hygiene. Johnson & Johnson, a major manufacturer of talc-based baby powder and body powder, has been accused of failing to warn consumers of the risks of talcum powder. As many as 10,000 women develop ovarian cancer each year as a result of baby powder use, says Harvard epidemiologist Dr. Daniel Cramer. Ovarian cancer is a serious disease and is expected to result in more than 14,000 deaths this year in the United States.
In October of 2013, a federal jury found manufacturer Johnson & Johnson at fault in the case of a South Dakota woman who developed ovarian cancer after having used the talcum-based product regularly for thirty years. The company’s attorney claimed that while it had known for years of its product's propensity for causing cancer, it felt the risk too small to warrant a warning to the public.
Research suggests that talc-based products used for feminine hygiene purposes can lead to an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer doesn't always manifest until the disease is spread beyond the ovaries. It is estimated that only 20% of women receive an early diagnosis, when the cancer is most easily cured. Early detection of ovarian cancer is paramount, considering the 5-year survival rate for all cases is a mere 40%.
Talcum powder is made from talc, a mineral made up mainly of the elements magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. As a powder, it absorbs moisture well and helps cut down on friction, making it useful for keeping skin dry and helping to prevent rashes. It is widely used in cosmetic products such as baby powder and adult body and facial powders, as well as in a number of other consumer products.
As early as the 1970's medical researchers in the field of ovarian cancer detected talc fibers in the ovarian tissues of women diagnosed with cancer. In 2003, a meta-analysis examining 16 previous talcum powder ovarian cancer research was published confirming that weekly use of baby powder increases the risk of ovarian cancer by 33%.
How do I know if my ovarian cancer was caused by talcum powder?
By reviewing your medical records and sending your pathology reports to a talcum powder ovarian cancer expert, we can help determine whether talc may have caused your ovarian cancer. Talc fibers can be found in the ovaries, Fallopian tubes and in the pelvic lymph nodes for years after entering the female reproductive system. If talc fibers are present in your ovarian tissues, our researchers will detect them. Individual who have used talcum powder or talc-based baby powderon a regular basis in the past are most likely to develop ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer symptoms:
- include pelvic pain, pressure and discomfort:
- abnormal bleeding
- bloating
- constant fatigue
- sudden weight loss or weight gain
- feeling sated quickly or difficulty eating
- frequent urination
- Constipation
- Shortness of breath
- Pain during intercourse
- Nausea and indigestion
- Back pain.
Contact the law office of Steven L. Foulston to obtain further information to assist you.