New Jersey Ovarian Cancer Lawyers
We often do not think of products that are labeled for use with babies to be harmful and dangerous to our health. Unfortunately, some products, such as talcum powder, can increase ovarian cancer risks for women when used after showering or taking a bath. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 20,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, and the disease claims the lives of more than 14,000 women annually. While there has been considerable research available for decades indicating that talcum powder increases a woman’s risk of ovarian cancer, Johnson & Johnson, the leading manufacturer of talcum powder products, withheld this information from consumers since 1982.
The ovarian cancer and talcum powder link was first discovered in 1971 when a study showed that talc particles were found in ovarian tissues of people with cancer. This is when physicians first learned that women were at a risk of developing ovarian cancer when using powder on their genitals, sanitary napkins or pads, diaphragms and condoms. When particles from talcum powder move into the vagina and then can go into the reproductive organs, it can result in an inflammation which increases the likelihood that cancer cells will begin to grow. This risk is made greater by the fact that talc can take years to break down inside your body. A 2008 Harvard study found that weekly use of talcum powder in the genital region increases a woman’s risk of ovarian cancer by 33%, while daily use boosts the risk by 41%.
Some common signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer to be aware of include:
• bloating
• pelvic or stomach pain
• problems eating or feeling full easily
• feeling the urgent need to urinate or having to go often
• feeling tired
• stomach upset
• menstrual cycle changes
• back pain
• stomach swelling and weight loss
The failure by J&J to adequately warn consumers of serious health risks constitutes gross negligence and is yet another example of a company placing profits over consumer safety. It is important to hold Johnson & Johnson accountable for these negligent actions.
If you or someone you love has used talcum powder as part of your personal hygiene care for many years and are now concerned about ovarian cancer or if you have already received an ovarian cancer diagnosis, then it is important that you contact one of our experienced and compassionate Talcum powder ovarian cancer lawyers. Contact a drug injury attorney at O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble for a free no obligation consultation. You can simply contact us online or call (908) 928-9200 or 1-800-586-5817.