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When it comes to scientific research, it is not uncommon for two studies to have two completely different results. In the case of the possible carcinogenic nature of Johnson & Johnson’s talc products, two studies are divided. The International Agency for Research on Cancer says it is carcinogenic. However, the National Cancer Institute’s Physician Data Query Editorial Board stands by the safety of Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder. CNN reports that juries are still awarding millions to women who claim use of Johnson & Johnson’s talc gave them ovarian cancer.
On Monday, a jury awarded Eva Echevarria $417 million because she used Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder for decades and developed ovarian cancer due to that use. The award includes $70 million in compensatory damages and $347 million in punitive damages.
63-year-old Echevarria said that she had used Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder as part of her feminine hygiene routine since she was 11 years old. She discontinued the product after reading a news story in 2016 about a woman who developed ovarian cancer as a result of her use of the talc product.
This is just the first of hundreds of similar cases that will be tried in California. Juries in other parts of the country have returned verdicts against Johnson & Johnson while another case in New Jersey was dismissed.
Johnson & Johnson is under no legal obligation to place a warning on its product. Because baby powder is considered a cosmetic, it does not have to undergo review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration the same way a drug would be required to do.
Some other manufacturers of talc powder do place warnings on their product mentioning the possibility of developing ovarian cancer through frequent application to the feminine genital area.
Johnson & Johnson has said that it will appeal the verdict in the California case.
Have you been diagnosed with ovarian cancer after long-term use of a talc product? Let the attorneys at the law offices of John Foy & Associates fight to get you the compensation that you deserve! Call us today.
