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<p>Talcum powder is an ingredient in baby powder, cosmetics, and many other common household products. However, several lawsuits allege that long-term use of talc-based products has contributed to mesothelioma and ovarian cancer in thousands of people. The majority of these lawsuits are against Johnson &amp; Johnson.</p>



<p>While major talc-based product manufacturers deny these allegations, company memos and internal documents disclosed during lawsuits show that talc suppliers and manufacturers knew about the risk of asbestos-contaminated talc and hid the dangers from the public for almost 40 years.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img width="120" height="111" data-public-id="weightIcon/weightIcon.png" loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxMjAiIGhlaWdodD0iMTExIj48cmVjdCB3aWR0aD0iMTAwJSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxMDAlIj48YW5pbWF0ZSBhdHRyaWJ1dGVOYW1lPSJmaWxsIiB2YWx1ZXM9InJnYmEoMTUzLDE1MywxNTMsMC41KTtyZ2JhKDE1MywxNTMsMTUzLDAuMSk7cmdiYSgxNTMsMTUzLDE1MywwLjUpIiBkdXI9IjJzIiByZXBlYXRDb3VudD0iaW5kZWZpbml0ZSIgLz48L3JlY3Q+PC9zdmc+" alt="" class="wp-post-434 wp-image-692" data-format="png" data-transformations="f_auto,q_auto" data-version="1717057069" data-seo="1" data-responsive="1" data-size="120 111" data-delivery="upload" onload=";window.CLDBind?CLDBind(this):document.body.appendChild(document.createElement(&#039;script&#039;)).src=&#039;https://cms.mesowatch.com/?cloudinary_lazy_load_loader=1&#039;;this.onload=null;" data-cloudinary="lazy" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-are-the-dangers-of-talcum-powder">What Are the Dangers of Talcum Powder?</h2>



<p><a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/talcum-powder-and-mesothelioma/">Talcum powder</a> is a talc product. Talc product is mined from the silicate mineral talc. Asbestos is an earth-formed mineral and a known human carcinogen.</p>



<p>Talc and asbestos are often found next to each other underground. When mined, talc in its natural form can contain asbestos. Asbestos-contaminated talc can lead to mesothelioma and cancerous tumors, including ovarian tumors.</p>



<p>Talcum powder absorbs moisture, helps prevent rashes, and eliminates odor. Talc is used in numerous consumer products, such as baby powder, cosmetic powder, and medicated powder. Most major brands of deodorant and antiperspirants typically contain talc. Talc is also used in almost all major brands of cosmetic foundation and finishing powder, blush, eye shadow, concealer, and nail enamel.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img width="115" height="103" data-public-id="talc_exposure_700e831d/talc_exposure_700e831d.png" loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxMTUiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAzIj48cmVjdCB3aWR0aD0iMTAwJSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxMDAlIj48YW5pbWF0ZSBhdHRyaWJ1dGVOYW1lPSJmaWxsIiB2YWx1ZXM9InJnYmEoMTUzLDE1MywxNTMsMC41KTtyZ2JhKDE1MywxNTMsMTUzLDAuMSk7cmdiYSgxNTMsMTUzLDE1MywwLjUpIiBkdXI9IjJzIiByZXBlYXRDb3VudD0iaW5kZWZpbml0ZSIgLz48L3JlY3Q+PC9zdmc+" alt="" class="wp-post-434 wp-image-700" data-format="png" data-transformations="f_auto,q_auto" data-version="1717057038" data-seo="1" data-responsive="1" data-size="115 103" data-delivery="upload" onload=";window.CLDBind?CLDBind(this):null;" data-cloudinary="lazy" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-talcum-powder-s-connection-to-mesothelioma">Talcum Powder&#8217;s Connection to Mesothelioma</h2>



<p>When talcum powder is airborne, the talc particles can be inhaled and lodged in the lining of the lungs. The presence of asbestos in the inhaled talc particles can cause respiratory issues, tumor formation, and the eventual development of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. Fewer than 3,000 cases are diagnosed each year.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Symptoms of this disease can take 30 to 50 years to manifest. The majority of cases are a result of occupational asbestos exposure. However, repeated exposure to asbestos-contaminated products is also a known cause.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img width="124" height="103" data-public-id="malignant_meso/malignant_meso.png" loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxMjQiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAzIj48cmVjdCB3aWR0aD0iMTAwJSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxMDAlIj48YW5pbWF0ZSBhdHRyaWJ1dGVOYW1lPSJmaWxsIiB2YWx1ZXM9InJnYmEoMTUzLDE1MywxNTMsMC41KTtyZ2JhKDE1MywxNTMsMTUzLDAuMSk7cmdiYSgxNTMsMTUzLDE1MywwLjUpIiBkdXI9IjJzIiByZXBlYXRDb3VudD0iaW5kZWZpbml0ZSIgLz48L3JlY3Q+PC9zdmc+" alt="" class="wp-post-434 wp-image-714" data-format="png" data-transformations="f_auto,q_auto" data-version="1717057004" data-seo="1" data-responsive="1" data-size="124 103" data-delivery="upload" onload=";window.CLDBind?CLDBind(this):null;" data-cloudinary="lazy" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-talcum-powder-s-connection-to-ovarian-cancer">Talcum Powder&#8217;s Connection to Ovarian Cancer</h2>



<p>When talcum powder is used on the female genital region for personal hygiene, or used on sanitary napkins, underwear, or condoms, it can cause cancer through the vagina. Asbestos-contaminated talc particles can travel from the uterus through the fallopian tubes to the ovaries and remain lodged inside for years. Over time, ovarian cancer cells can develop.</p>



<p>The use of talcum powder on female genitals increases the risk of ovarian cancer by almost 30%, according to Dr. Daniel Cramer, Harvard Medical School professor and director of the OB/GYN Epidemiology Center at Brigham and Women&#8217;s Hospital in Boston. Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading type of cancer in women. Roughly 21,410 women are diagnosed with the disease each year, most commonly older women.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img width="110" height="103" data-public-id="talc_woman-1_704229d0/talc_woman-1_704229d0.png" loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxMTAiIGhlaWdodD0iMTAzIj48cmVjdCB3aWR0aD0iMTAwJSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxMDAlIj48YW5pbWF0ZSBhdHRyaWJ1dGVOYW1lPSJmaWxsIiB2YWx1ZXM9InJnYmEoMTUzLDE1MywxNTMsMC41KTtyZ2JhKDE1MywxNTMsMTUzLDAuMSk7cmdiYSgxNTMsMTUzLDE1MywwLjUpIiBkdXI9IjJzIiByZXBlYXRDb3VudD0iaW5kZWZpbml0ZSIgLz48L3JlY3Q+PC9zdmc+" alt="icon representing women" class="wp-post-434 wp-image-704" data-format="png" data-transformations="f_auto,q_auto" data-version="1717057029" data-seo="1" data-responsive="1" data-size="110 103" data-delivery="upload" onload=";window.CLDBind?CLDBind(this):null;" data-cloudinary="lazy" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-talcum-powder-lawsuits">Talcum Powder Lawsuits</h2>



<p>Talcum powder lawsuits are considered product liability lawsuits because talc-based product manufacturers made and sold dangerous products. Manufacturers of talc-based products must warn consumers about the link between talc and mesothelioma and ovarian cancer on their labels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-johnson-amp-johnson-talcum-powder-lawsuit">Johnson &amp; Johnson Talcum Powder Lawsuit</h2>



<p>Johnson &amp; Johnson manufactures Johnson &amp; Johnson baby powder and Shower to Shower body powder, which are talc-based products.</p>



<p>In 2013, Johnson &amp; Johnson was found negligent in the first-ever case claiming a link between baby powder and ovarian cancer.</p>



<p>In 2018, Reuters reported that Johnson &amp; Johnson&#8217;s talc-based products are contaminated with asbestos.</p>



<p>In 2019, the FDA found asbestos in tests of Johnson &amp; Johnson&#8217;s talc-based baby powder. Johnson &amp; Johnson responded by recalling over 33,000 bottles of the product.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In mid-2020, Johnson &amp; Johnson announced it would cease selling talc-based baby powder in North America and replace the product with a cornstarch-based baby powder.</p>



<p>Johnson &amp; <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/lawsuits/johnson-and-johnson/">Johnson faces over 27,000 talcum powder lawsuits</a>, the highest amount of any talc-based product manufacturer. The largest portion of the Johnson &amp; Johnson lawsuits still pending are part of multidistrict litigation in New Jersey federal court.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img width="140" height="129" data-public-id="courtIcon_681fef0a/courtIcon_681fef0a.png" loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciIHdpZHRoPSIxNDAiIGhlaWdodD0iMTI5Ij48cmVjdCB3aWR0aD0iMTAwJSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxMDAlIj48YW5pbWF0ZSBhdHRyaWJ1dGVOYW1lPSJmaWxsIiB2YWx1ZXM9InJnYmEoMTUzLDE1MywxNTMsMC41KTtyZ2JhKDE1MywxNTMsMTUzLDAuMSk7cmdiYSgxNTMsMTUzLDE1MywwLjUpIiBkdXI9IjJzIiByZXBlYXRDb3VudD0iaW5kZWZpbml0ZSIgLz48L3JlY3Q+PC9zdmc+" alt="" class="wp-post-434 wp-image-681" data-format="png" data-transformations="f_auto,q_auto" data-version="1717057113" data-seo="1" data-responsive="1" data-size="140 129" data-delivery="upload" onload=";window.CLDBind?CLDBind(this):null;" data-cloudinary="lazy" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lawsuits-against-other-talc-manufacturers-and-companies">Lawsuits Against Other Talc Manufacturers and Companies</h2>



<p>Other companies named in talcum powder lawsuits include:</p>



<ul>
<li>Colgate-Palmolive, which manufactures Cashmere Bouquet feminine hygiene body powder.</li>



<li>Gold Bond, which manufactures the Gold Bond brand Body Powder, Extra Strength Body Powder, and No Mess Powder Spray talcum powder.</li>



<li>Imerys Talc America, which mines and manufactures raw industrial and cosmetic talcum powder.</li>



<li>Revlon, which manufactures Jean Nate Silkening Body Powder.</li>



<li>Vanderbilt Minerals, which mines raw industrial talc powder.</li>



<li>Whittaker, Clark &amp; Daniels, which mines and manufactures raw cosmetic talc powder for Old Spice.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-significant-settlements-in-talcum-powder-lawsuits">Significant Settlements in Talcum Powder Lawsuits</h2>



<p>In August 2017, a Los Angeles woman was awarded $70 million in compensatory damages and $347 million in punitive damages after developing terminal ovarian cancer as a result of daily use of Johnson &amp; Johnson baby powder on her genital region for over 40 years. However, in July 2019, Johnson &amp; Johnson was granted a retrial for this case.</p>



<p>In 2018, a St. Louis, Missouri jury awarded $550 million in compensatory damages and $4.14 billion in punitive damages in a class action lawsuit against Johnson &amp; Johnson and Imerys Tal America. The plaintiffs in the class action consisted of 22 women who claimed that Imerys was the supplier of asbestos-contaminated talc used in Johnson &amp; Johnson body powder. The women used it as part of their daily feminine hygiene routine, leading to their ovarian cancer.</p>



<p>An appeal in 2019 was upheld by the Missouri Court of Appeals, but the award was reduced to $2.12 billion in total damages. Johnson &amp; Johnson is appealing the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.</p>



<p>In October 2020, Johnson &amp; Johnson agreed to pay more than $100 million to settle over 1,000 talcum powder lawsuits, which alleged that Johnson &amp; Johnson&#8217;s asbestos-contaminated baby powder caused mesothelioma.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-difference-between-a-class-action-talcum-powder-lawsuit-and-an-individual-lawsuit">The Difference Between a Class Action Talcum Powder Lawsuit and an Individual Lawsuit</h2>



<p>In a class action lawsuit, a group of plaintiffs sues talc-based product manufacturers for injuries caused by common actions taken or not taken. If the court rules in the plaintiffs&#8217; favor or the talc-based product manufacturers settle, all injured parties in the lawsuit receive compensation in proportion to the talc-related injury or damage they incurred. The attorney fees are spread across all of the plaintiffs. Often, if the class action includes many plaintiffs, they may not end up with much money.</p>



<p>An individual lawsuit is brought by a plaintiff against talc-based product manufacturers to recover compensation and damages for a talc-related injury. If the court rules in favor of the plaintiff or the talc-based manufacturers settle, all of the compensation awarded goes to the plaintiff. The plaintiff is responsible for paying the attorney&#8217;s fees.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-filing-a-talcum-powder-lawsuit">Filing a Talcum Powder Lawsuit</h2>



<p>Talcum powder litigation has been underway for some time, and some settlements have already been made. However, you still have time to file an individual lawsuit.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-can-file-a-talcum-powder-ovarian-cancer-lawsuit">Who Can File a Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer Lawsuit?</h2>



<p>You may be eligible to file a <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/does-talcum-powder-cause-cancer/">talcum powder ovarian cancer</a> lawsuit if:</p>



<ul>
<li>You are a woman that used a talc-based product around the genitals regularly, and;</li>



<li>You were diagnosed with ovarian cancer or epithelial ovarian cancer between 2000 and the present, and;</li>



<li>You were between the ages of 22 and 65 when you were diagnosed.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>



<p>Most talcum powder lawyers offer free consultations. During that consultation, a legal representative will listen to your story, ask relevant questions about the case, and walk you through your medical history to determine the severity of your injuries.</p>



<p>After you have hired a lawyer, they will file a lawsuit on your behalf based on the severity of your injuries. Due to the number of claims that have been consolidated, you will not need to appear in court. Your lawyer will represent you in court.</p>



<p>If the judge rules in the plaintiff&#8217;s favor, or if the talc manufacturer agrees to settle, your compensation award will be based on the severity of your injuries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-statute-of-limitations-for-filing-a-talcum-powder-lawsuit">Statute of Limitations for Filing a Talcum Powder Lawsuit</h2>



<p>The <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/lawsuits/statute-of-limitations/">statute of limitations varies </a>by state from two to ten years. Most states&#8217; statutes average two years. Some statutes begin when you were diagnosed with cancer; others start the date you discovered that talc-based powder likely caused your ovarian cancer.</p>



<p>If you have lost a loved one to ovarian cancer due to talcum powder use, a wrongful death claim may be filed by a family member. The statute of limitations on wrongful death claims in most states is two years.</p>



<p>An experienced talcum powder lawyer can help determine the statute of limitations that applies to your state.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-can-talcum-powder-lawsuit-plaintiffs-expect-a-settlement">When Can Talcum Powder Lawsuit Plaintiffs Expect a Settlement?</h2>



<p>Litigation is ongoing for talc-related mesothelioma and ovarian cancer claims. The remaining Johnson &amp; Johnson lawsuits are primarily ovarian cancer lawsuits.</p>



<p>Over 16,000 individual talcum powder lawsuits are included in the multidistrict litigation against Johnson &amp; Johnson. In April 2020, the New Jersey District judge ruled to allow scientific evidence that links ovarian cancer to Johnson &amp; Johnson baby powder.</p>



<p>Bellwether trials are test trials intended to give both the plaintiff and the defendant a sense of how their cases would play out in court. The selection of the first bellwether trial cases to be tried has been completed. Now, the plaintiffs&#8217; attorneys are gathering medical histories and evidence in preparation for trial.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In Johnson &amp; Johnson&#8217;s January 2, 2021, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filing, the company stated that it set aside nearly $4 billion for talc-related cancer lawsuits and settlement reserves.</p>



<p>If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with lung cancer, mesothelioma, ovarian cancer, epithelial ovarian cancer, or ovarian tumors due to asbestos-contaminated talc, you should seek the counsel of an experienced talcum powder lawyer.</p>



<p>At MesoWatch, we are committed to helping people diagnosed with an asbestos-related or talc-related illness receive the compensation they are entitled to. Contact us to help connect you to a talcum powder lawyer.</p>


Talcum Powder

Oxford Academic. Mesothelioma among Workers in Asbestiform Fiber-Bearing Talc Mines in New York State. from

Live Science. Does talcum powder cause ovarian cancer? Retrieved from 

Reuters. Jury orders J&J to pay $4.7 billion in Missouri asbestos cancer case. Retrieved from 

The Law Firm. (n.d.). Talcum powder lawsuit update. Retrieved from 

New Jersey Courts - Talc-Powder - Case List, from

CNN. (2018, July 13). $4.69 billion verdict against Johnson & Johnson's talcum powder. Retrieved from 

Bloomberg. (2020, October 5). J&J to pay more than $100 million to end over 1,000 talc suits. Retrieved from 

The National Law Review. (n.d.). How to file baby powder ovarian cancer lawsuit. Retrieved from 

NOLO. (n.d.). Time limits for filing a product liability claim. Retrieved from 

American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Key statistics for malignant mesothelioma. Retrieved from 

American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Key statistics for ovarian cancer. Retrieved from 

Reuters. (2021, February 23). Johnson & Johnson sets aside almost $4 billion for talc verdict, filing shows. Retrieved from 

What You Need To Know About Talcum Powder Cancer Lawsuits


<p>A scientist has scored a victory over Johnson &amp; Johnson, which alleged her influential research linking <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/talc-cosmetics-asbestos-mesothelioma/">asbestos-contaminated cosmetic products</a> to the deadly cancer mesothelioma was libelous and fraudulent. </p>



<p>On Friday, U.S. District Court Judge Georgette Castner granted Dr. Jacqueline Moline’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit that LTL, a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of J&amp;J, filed against her. Castner’s ruling stated the article was based on scientific opinions protected under the First Amendment. </p>



<p>In January 2020, Moline, an occupational medicine professor and specialist, and several co-authors published an article in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine that described 33 cases of <a href="https://mesowatch.com/mesothelioma/">malignant mesothelioma </a>among individuals who used cosmetic talcum powder. The article is considered a key reason for a nationwide wave of litigation against J&amp;J by individuals who contracted mesothelioma or ovarian cancer after prolonged, continued use of Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower products. </p>



<p>LTL claimed Moline knew the article’s premise was false, “or recklessly ignored available information demonstrating its falsity” because she was an expert witness for plaintiffs in the underlying tort cases where patients identified other <a href="https://mesowatch.com/exposure/">sources of possible exposure to asbestos</a>. </p>



<p>In particular, LTL alleged that some tissue samples referenced in the article containing a type of asbestos associated with talc also tested positive for asbestos “encountered in cases of industrial and occupational exposure, not cosmetic talcum powder.”</p>



<p>However, Castner noted in her ruling that the article was upfront about the study’s limitations and disclosed that the cases were referred to Moline for evaluation as part of tort litigation.</p>



<p>The ruling also stated the other alleged sources of asbestos exposure identified by LTL “do not render Dr. Moline’s finding that the individuals had ‘no known asbestos exposure other than cosmetic talcum powder’ a verifiably false statement of fact as opposed to a nonactionable scientific conclusion.” </p>



<p>The ruling noted the article stated that it only took into consideration tissue analysis conducted by one of the co-authors, and any analysis that might have been done by other investigators were not presented.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The ruling also stated that the court “must also consider the content of the whole communication and its apparent purpose,” and that the article’s self-described purpose of underlying the importance “of collecting detailed exposure histories … in patients presenting with mesothelioma.”&nbsp;</p>



<p>Erik Haas, global vice president of litigation for J&amp;J, said Monday that the company <a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/scientist-defeats-jj-lawsuit-over-cancer-research-2024-07-01/">will appeal</a> Castner’s ruling.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-ltl-and-not-j-amp-j-filed-the-fraud-claim">Why LTL, and Not J&amp;J, Filed the Fraud Claim</h2>



<p>In the wake of mounting lawsuits from consumers who contracted cancer after using J&amp;J products, the company created LTL in 2021 to assume all its talc liability. LTL then filed for bankruptcy protection in Texas. However, the court has twice rejected LTL’s maneuver, known as the “Texas Two-Step.”</p>



<p>After both bankruptcy failures, J&amp;J announced it was lowering its proposed settlement agreement with ovarian cancer claimants.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Last month, attorneys for talc claimants filed a <a href="https://mesowatch.com/cancer-victims-motion-judge-to-block-jjs-bankruptcy-settlement/">class action suit</a> in an effort to prevent J&amp;J from filing for bankruptcy for a third time through LTL after the subsidiary proposed a reorganization plan to pay a proposed $6.48 billion to settle claims filed by <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/lawsuits/johnson-and-johnson/">tens of thousands of women</a> with ovarian cancer. Lawyers for the women called the payout grossly inadequate because each client would receive only $43,000 on average, and liens and attorney fees would be deducted from that amount. </p>



<p>However, on the same day Castner threw out LTL’s libel and fraud suit, U.S. District Court Judge Michael Shipp <a href="https://mesowatch.com/judge-dismisses-bid-to-block-jjs-6-48b-talc-settlement/">dismissed a preliminary order</a> in the class action suit asking the New Jersey federal court to block J&amp;J’s bankruptcy settlement plan.&nbsp;</p>



<p>If 75% of the claimants agree to the proposed settlement by July 26, the reorganization plan will go forward.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-long-history-of-j-amp-j-talc-and-cancer">The Long History of J&amp;J, Talc, and Cancer</h2>



<p>Cancer patients have been filing personal injury lawsuits against J&amp;J for decades, claiming they got sick due to asbestos in its talcum powder products. However, research studies on the link between talc and cancer have shown mixed results.</p>



<p>The company <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/lawsuits/johnson-and-johnson/">allegedly knew in 1971</a> that its baby powder contained talc that had been contaminated with asbestos during the mining process, but continually stated its products were asbestos-free. </p>



<p>In 2019, J&amp;J finally recalled 33,000 bottles of its baby powder after testing revealed trace amounts of asbestos. The following year, the company ceased baby powder sales in the United States and Canada.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In recent years, J&amp;J has won some of the lawsuits filed against it but has also had to pay millions to consumers through verdicts and settlements. The company recently settled claims from nearly all the U.S. states plus the District of Columbia for <a href="https://mesowatch.com/breaking-down-the-jj-talc-settlement-by-state-who-gets-what/">$700 million</a>. </p>


Judge Rejects J&J’s Fraud Allegations in Mesothelioma Talc Study Case


<p>On June 28, a federal judge rejected a preliminary order by cancer victims aimed at blocking Johnson &amp; Johnson from moving forward on its proposed  $6.48 billion bankruptcy settlement plan. The plan was created to settle tens of thousands of lawsuits alleging the company&#8217;s <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/talcum-powders-that-contain-asbestos/">talc products contain asbestos</a>, which led to victims developing ovarian cancer or mesothelioma, a deadly cancer linked to asbestos exposure.</p>



<p>Victims in New Jersey <a href="https://mesowatch.com/cancer-victims-motion-judge-to-block-jjs-bankruptcy-settlement/">filed the preliminary order</a> as part of a class action lawsuit. Lawyers for talc claimants filed the order to prevent another planned J&amp;J bankruptcy from being filed in Texas or any other jurisdiction outside New Jersey.</p>



<p>The move comes just weeks after Johnson &amp; Johnson’s subsidiary LLT Management submitted a new plan called “Plan of Reorganization” to pay ovarian cancer claimants around $6.48 billion over 25 years to resolve 99.75% of its U.S.-based talc lawsuits. If successful, the order would have prevented J&amp;J from filing for bankruptcy outside the state and put a wrench in its plan to push through the settlement plan. </p>



<p>During Friday’s proceedings, U.S. District Judge Michael Shipp said he could not grant the motion because any harm to the victims was &#8220;strictly hypothetical.&#8221; He said he had no jurisdiction to resolve a dispute over &#8220;events that have not, and may never, occur.&#8221;</p>



<p>J&amp;J hopes to receive support from 75% of the claimants out of the more than 61,000 lawsuits as part of the prepackaged bankruptcy plan. The voting deadline on the plan is July 26.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-bankruptcy-plan-projected-to-pass">Bankruptcy Plan Projected to Pass</h2>



<p>According to a <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/breaking-news-jj-talcum-powder-lawsuit-settlements-expected-to-be-approved-by-end-of-july-says-legal-bay-lawsuit-funding-302183920.html">press release</a> by Legal-Bay LLC, the multiple, years-long legal disputes against Johnson &amp; Johnson regarding ties between the use of their <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/talcum-powder-and-ovarian-cancer/">talc-based baby powder and ovarian cancer </a>may finally be coming to an end. The bankruptcy filing would enable an expedited plan to be enacted, allowing for a $6.475 billion payout to almost 60,000 plaintiffs. </p>



<p>Under the new settlement plan, victims would receive smaller payouts as retribution for serious medical conditions. Due to the volume of claimants, each settlement value is expected to be between $50k to $150k for each of the nearly 60,000 claims.</p>



<p>J&amp;J continues to maintain its talc is safe, asbestos-free, and does not cause cancer. The company says that its bankruptcy settlement is a fair and equitable solution for claimants who could walk away with nothing at all if their case went to court.</p>



<p>Plaintiffs&#8217; attorneys oppose the plan and say it is a fraudulent attempt to short-change plaintiffs and keep them from getting the retribution they deserve. The settlement is also an attempt by J&amp;J to place billions of dollars of the company&#8217;s assets out of plaintiffs&#8217; reach.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-j-amp-j-s-700m-finalizes-settlement-over-talc-marketing">J&amp;J’s $700M Finalizes Settlement over Talc Marketing</h2>



<p>On June 11, the company finalized a separate $700 million settlement of an investigation by 42 states and Washington, D.C., into the marketing of its talc-based products linked to causing cancer.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.nj.gov/oag/newsreleases24/2024-0611_JNJFinalCO.pdf">Under the settlement</a>, J&amp;J resolved charges that it misled consumers for decades into believing its talc powders were safe. New Jersey will receive just over $30.2 million as part of the resolution, <a href="https://www.njoag.gov/attorney-general-platkin-42-states-announce-700-million-johnson-johnson-settlement/">state Attorney General Matthew Platkin said.&nbsp;</a></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-johnson-amp-johnson-attempts-multiple-bankruptcy-maneuvers">Johnson &amp; Johnson Attempts Multiple Bankruptcy Maneuvers</h2>



<p>For decades, people have used talcum powder in a variety of consumer products including baby and hygiene body powder. Studies then began to surface linking the popular talcum powder to deadly diseases such as mesothelioma and ovarian cancer. As a result, people<a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/lawsuits/johnson-and-johnson/"> filed thousands of lawsuits </a>against the significant talcum powder producer Johnson &amp; Johnson.</p>



<p>Johnson &amp; Johnson has made numerous attempts to disrupt these proceedings and avoid having to pay damages to the victims. Part of those maneuvers were two failed attempts by J&amp;J to execute bankruptcy proceedings aimed at ending current and future talc lawsuits.</p>



<p>The pharmaceutical giant made a strategy, known as a <a href="https://h34teii1s0o1igvuekoss2irq.js.wpenginepowered.com/jj-faces-new-mesothelioma-trial-in-texas-over-talc-claims/">Texas two-step</a>, a term coined in 2023 when it attempted to create a subsidiary that could absorb its talc liability, and then declare bankruptcy. In both bankruptcy cases, two separate courts found that J&amp;J&#8217;s subsidiary lacked the &#8220;financial distress&#8221; necessary to legitimize a bankruptcy filing.</p>


Judge Dismisses Bid to Block J&J’s $6.48B Talc Settlement


<p>The recent <a href="https://mesowatch.com/jj-agrees-to-settle-consumer-deception-claims-for-700-million/">$700 million settlement by Johnson &amp; Johnson</a> marks a significant milestone in the battle over the safety of talc products. This settlement aims to resolve thousands of claims alleging that J&amp;J’s talc products, including their iconic baby powder, <a href="https://mesowatch.com/exposure/">caused cancer due to asbestos contamination</a>. It represents a crucial step for public health and corporate accountability, emphasizing the importance of consumer safety and the responsibility of corporations to ensure their products are free from harmful substances.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-landmark-settlement-in-the-fight-against-asbestos">A Landmark Settlement in the Fight Against Asbestos</h2>



<p>For years, <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/lawsuits/johnson-and-johnson/">J&amp;J has faced litigation over allegations that their talc products contained asbestos</a>, a known carcinogen. Plaintiffs argued that prolonged use of these products led to serious health issues, <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/talcum-powder-and-ovarian-cancer/">including ovarian cancer</a> and <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/talcum-powder-and-mesothelioma/">cases of mesothelioma cancer</a>. This settlement provides financial relief to the affected individuals and sets a precedent for future corporate conduct and regulatory oversight.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-journey-to-justice-how-we-got-here">The Journey to Justice: How We Got Here</h2>



<p>The origins of the <a href="https://mesowatch.com/talcum-powder/lawsuits/">J&amp;J talc lawsuits</a> date back to initial consumer complaints about health issues linked to talc products. Over time, these complaints evolved into lawsuits alleging that J&amp;J’s talc products were contaminated with asbestos. The plaintiffs presented compelling evidence, including internal company documents and expert testimonies, to support their claims.</p>



<p>The legal battles were complex, involving numerous trials and appeals. J&amp;J faced significant public and regulatory scrutiny, with plaintiffs arguing that the company had known about the asbestos contamination for decades but failed to warn consumers. The pressure on J&amp;J intensified as more evidence came to light, leading to the eventual settlement.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-the-700-million-settlement">Understanding the $700 Million Settlement</h2>



<p>The total settlement amount is $700 million, which will be distributed among the claimants based on several criteria. These include the number of claims from each state, the severity of health impacts, and the legal costs incurred. The settlement aims to <a href="https://mesowatch.com/lawyers/compensation/">provide fair compensation</a>, covering medical expenses, legal fees, and compensation for pain and suffering.</p>



<p>The distribution of funds is designed to ensure that those most affected receive adequate support. This includes individuals who have faced significant health challenges and financial burdens due to their use of J&amp;J’s talc products.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-the-settlement-is-divided-state-by-state-breakdown">How the Settlement is Divided: State-by-State Breakdown</h2>



<p>The settlement funds are <a href="https://www.jpml.uscourts.gov/sites/jpml/files/Pending_MDL_Dockets_By_Actions_Pending-June-3-2024.pdf">allocated to each state based on the number of claims</a> and the severity of health impacts expected by the end of July. Here is a detailed breakdown of the specific amounts allocated to each state:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Alabama</strong>: $13.4 million</li>



<li><strong>Alaska</strong>: $3.15 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-reaches-700-million-national-settlement-against-johnson-and"><strong>Arizona</strong></a>: $15.4 million</li>



<li><a href="https://arkansasag.gov/news_releases/attorney-general-griffin-announces-arkansas-will-receive-12-7-million-as-part-of-national-settlement-against-johnson-johnson/"><strong>Arkansas</strong></a>: $12.7 million</li>



<li><strong>California</strong>: $78 million</li>



<li><a href="https://coag.gov/press-releases/6-11-24/"><strong>Colorado</strong></a>: $14.3 million</li>



<li><a href="https://portal.ct.gov/ag/press-releases/2024-press-releases/attorney-general-tong-announces-700-million-settlement-against-johnson-and-johnson"><strong>Connecticut</strong></a>: $9.2 million</li>



<li><a href="https://news.delaware.gov/2024/06/11/attorney-general-kathy-jennings-reaches-700-million-settlement-against-johnson-and-johnson/"><strong>Delaware</strong></a>: $4.9 million</li>



<li><a href="https://oag.dc.gov/release/attorney-general-schwalb-announces-johnson-johnson"><strong>Washington</strong>, DC</a>: $3 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrelease/attorney-general-moody-leads-multistate-action-against-johnson-johnson-and-secures-700"><strong>Florida</strong></a>: $48 million</li>



<li><strong>Georgia</strong>: $24.1 million</li>



<li><strong>Hawaii</strong>: $5.3 million</li>



<li><strong>Idaho</strong>: $5.7 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/news/story/attorney-general-raoul-reaches-700-million-settlement-with-johnson-and-johnson"><strong>Illinois</strong></a>: $29 million</li>



<li><a href="https://events.in.gov/event/attorney-general-todd-rokita-achieves-18-million-settlement-for-indiana-with-johnson-johnson?utm_campaign=widget&amp;utm_medium=widget&amp;utm_source=State+of+Indiana"><strong>Indiana</strong></a>: $18 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/newsroom/attorney-general-bird-announces-700-million-settlement-with-johnson-and-johnson"><strong>Iowa</strong></a>: $9.4 million</li>



<li><strong>Kansas</strong>: $11.4 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.kentucky.gov/Pages/Activity-stream.aspx?n=AttorneyGeneral&amp;prId=1580"><strong>Kentucky</strong></a>: $9 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.maine.gov/ag/news/article.shtml?id=12801575"><strong>Maine</strong></a>: $4.8 million</li>



<li><strong>Maryland</strong>: $14.9 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.mass.gov/news/massachusetts-to-receive-over-14-million-from-settlement-with-johnson-johnson-for-alleged-deceptive-marketing-of-talc-containing-products"><strong>Massachusetts</strong></a>: $14.5 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.michigan.gov/ag/news/press-releases/2024/06/11/attorney-general-nessel-reaches-settlement-against-johnson-and-johnson"><strong>Michigan</strong></a>: $20.6 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.ag.state.mn.us/Office/Communications/2024/06/11_JohnsonJohnson.asp"><strong>Minnesota</strong></a>: $10.5 million</li>



<li><strong>Montana</strong>: $3.5 million</li>



<li><a href="https://ago.nebraska.gov/news/attorney-general-hilgers-and-coalition-ags-reach-700-million-settlement-against-johnson-and"><strong>Nebraska</strong></a>: $5.2 million</li>



<li><strong>Nevada</strong>: $6.1 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.doj.nh.gov/news/2024/20240611-johnson-and-johnson-settlement.htm"><strong>New Hampshire</strong></a>: $5.9 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.njoag.gov/attorney-general-platkin-42-states-announce-700-million-johnson-johnson-settlement/"><strong>New Jersey</strong></a>: $30.2 million</li>



<li><a href="https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/2024/attorney-general-james-helps-secure-700-million-johnson-johnson-over-products"><strong>New York</strong></a>: $44 million</li>



<li><strong>North Carolina</strong>: $27.3 million</li>



<li><strong>North Dakota</strong>: $3.2 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Media/News-Releases/June-2024/Yost-Secures-$27-7-Million-for-Ohio-as-Part-of-Mul"><strong>Ohio</strong></a>: $27.7 million</li>



<li><a href="https://oklahoma.gov/oag/news/newsroom/2024/june/drummond-announces-oklahoma-will-join-multistate-700-million-settlement-with-johnson-johnson.html"><strong>Oklahoma</strong></a>: $9.8 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/coalition-of-43-ags-reach-700-million-nationwide-settlement-with-johnson-and-johnson-over-deceptive-marketing-oregon-to-receive-15-million/"><strong>Oregon</strong></a>: $15 million </li>



<li><a href="https://riag.ri.gov/press-releases/attorney-general-neronha-reaches-nearly-7-million-settlement-johnson-johnson"><strong>Rhode Island</strong></a>: $6.9 million</li>



<li><strong>South Dakota</strong>: $3.6 million</li>



<li><strong>Texas</strong>: $61.5 million</li>



<li><strong>Utah</strong>: $7.5 million</li>



<li><a href="https://ago.vermont.gov/blog/2024/06/11/attorney-general-clark-announces-31-million-settlement-johnson-johnson-over-talc-products"><strong>Vermont</strong></a>: $3.1 million</li>



<li><a href="https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/2746-june-11-2024-attorney-general-miyares-reaches-700-million-settlement-against-johnson-johnson"><strong>Virginia</strong></a>: $21.1 million</li>



<li><strong>Washington state</strong>: $13.9 million</li>



<li><a href="https://mailchi.mp/wvago/breaking-wva-ag-bipartisan-coalition-reach-700m-settlement-against-johnson-and-johnson?e=63c6a19f3f"><strong>West Virginia</strong></a>: $5.9 million</li>



<li><strong>Wisconsin</strong>: $15.8 million</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-human-impact-what-this-means-for-affected-individuals">The Human Impact: What This Means for Affected Individuals</h2>



<p>The settlement <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/breaking-news-jj-talcum-powder-lawsuit-settlements-expected-to-be-approved-by-end-of-july-says-legal-bay-lawsuit-funding-302183920.html">which is expected by the end of July</a> should provide significant financial support to individuals in different states, covering medical expenses, legal fees, and compensation for pain and suffering. This financial relief is crucial for managing the health challenges and financial burdens caused by J&amp;J’s talc products. The settlement also underscores the importance of consumer safety and corporate accountability, ensuring that companies are held responsible for the safety of their products.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expert-opinions-legal-and-medical-perspectives">Expert Opinions: Legal and Medical Perspectives</h2>



<p>Legal experts view the settlement as a landmark case in terms of corporate accountability and consumer protection. Medical professionals emphasize the health risks associated with talc products and the importance of the <a href="https://mesowatch.com/lawyers/compensation/settlements/">settlement in providing relief</a> to affected individuals. Affected individuals have expressed relief and gratitude for the financial support, which will help them manage their health and financial challenges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-future-implications-a-precedent-for-change">Future Implications: A Precedent for Change</h2>



<p>The J&amp;J talc settlement is likely to influence future talc-related lawsuits, setting a precedent for similar cases. It may also lead to stricter regulations and more rigorous testing of <a href="https://mesowatch.com/fda-confirms-asbestos-contaminated-talc-in-marie-claires-cosmetics/">consumer products including cosmetics</a> to ensure safety. The settlement highlights the need for regulatory bodies to remain vigilant in ensuring product safety and holding corporations accountable for their actions.</p>



<p>The J&amp;J talc settlement is a significant step towards public health and corporate accountability. It provides financial relief to affected individuals and sets a precedent for future corporate conduct and regulatory oversight. The settlement underscores the importance of consumer safety and the need for continued vigilance in ensuring product safety.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-common-questions-about-the-settlement">Common Questions About the Settlement</h2>



<div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625679260"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What is the total amount of the J&amp;J talc settlement?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The total amount of the J&amp;J talc settlement is $700 million.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625692783"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How was the settlement amount for each state determined?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The settlement amount for each state was determined based on the number of claims, the severity of health impacts, and the legal costs incurred.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625701416"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Which states are receiving the highest compensation and why?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">California and New York are among the states receiving the highest compensation due to the large number of claims and the severity of health impacts reported.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625709999"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How will the settlement funds be used in each state?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The settlement funds will be used to cover medical expenses, legal fees, and compensation for pain and suffering for affected individuals.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625715980"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What are the eligibility criteria for individuals to receive compensation?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Eligibility criteria include having filed a claim alleging health issues caused by J&amp;J’s talc products and meeting specific legal and medical requirements.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625726565"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What should affected individuals do to claim their compensation?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Affected individuals should contact their legal representatives or the settlement administrator to understand the process for claiming their compensation.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625739931"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How does this settlement impact future talc-related lawsuits?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The settlement sets a precedent for future talc-related lawsuits, potentially leading to more settlements and stricter regulations.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625750913"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Are there any ongoing legal battles related to J&amp;J talc products?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">While this settlement resolves many claims, there may still be ongoing legal battles related to J&amp;J talc products.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625765663"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What measures is J&amp;J taking to prevent future lawsuits?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">J&amp;J has stated that they are committed to ensuring the safety of their products and may implement more rigorous testing and quality control measures.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625776898"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How can individuals stay informed about the settlement distribution in their state?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Individuals can stay informed by following updates from their legal representatives, the settlement administrator, and official announcements from J&amp;J.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1719625785180"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Why were Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Wyoming not part of the lawsuit?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">These states were not part of the lawsuit for various reasons, including differences in state laws and decisions made by state attorneys general. As a result, they did not participate in the settlement agreement.</p> </div> </div>


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