A Missouri jury has awarded more than $110 million in damages to a Virginia woman who claimed that using Johnson & Johnson talc-based products led to her developing ovarian cancer. The verdict, reached Thursday in St. Louis, Missouri, is the largest award to date in what has become thousands of lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson over talcum power products that have been found to increase cancer risks.
According to court documents, the woman, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2012 and is currently undergoing chemotherapy after the cancer returned and spread to her liver, had used Johnson & Johnson brand Baby Powder and Shower to Shower Powder for over 40 years. Ultimately, the jury sided with the woman, and awarded damages against Johnson & Johnson and its talc supplier Imerys Talc. This award is essential to helping the woman cover her extensive medical expenses and pain and suffering, and sets an example to Johnson & Johnson and other manufacturers that fail to uphold their duty of ensuring the safety of their products and adequately warn consumers about risks.
The recent lawsuit is one of over 2,400 suits filed across the country in connection to Johnson & Johnson talc-powder products and increased risks of ovarian cancer in women. Several studies, including some that date back decades, have reported elevated risks of ovarian cancer associated with talc-powder use for feminine hygiene. In fact, one study from 1971 found that genital talcum powder application resulted in a 30% increased risk for ovarian cancer. Despite these risks, Johnson & Johnson did not adequately warn women about the dangers of using its talcum powder products.
At Shaheen & Gordon, P.A., our Maine personal injury attorneys are actively investigating cases from women and families who have been affected by Johnson & Johnson talc-products. If use of these products led to ovarian cancer, victims may have the right to pursue monetary compensation for their damages, including their pain and suffering, lost income, and medical expenses. Families who have lost loved ones as a result of ovarian cancer may also have the right to seek a recovery of their damages.
If you would like to discuss a potential case with our legal team, do not hesitate to reach out for the experienced and compassionate representation you need during these difficult times. Our legal team is equipped with decades of combined experience, as well as the resources required to help families navigate the legal process and effectively fight back against large corporations that want to pay as little as possible. With proven lawyers in your corner, you can put yourself in position to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
For a FREE consultation, contact us today. We serve clients throughout Maine, New Hampshire, and Northern New England from multiple office locations.