Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Wrongful Death, Medical Malpractice, Bad Faith Insurance, Car Accidents, T-Bone Tractor-Trailer Accidents, Dangerous Drugs
For decades, Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder was a household name—trusted for personal hygiene, especially by women who used it regularly as part of their routine. But recent lawsuits have uncovered a troubling link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer, with thousands of women across the country taking legal action.
If you or a loved one used baby powder and later developed ovarian cancer, you’re not alone. Here’s what you should know about the legal claims, the science behind them, and how people in Tulsa can take steps to protect their rights.
Talcum powder is made from talc, a mineral often found near asbestos in the earth. While most consumer products today are meant to be asbestos-free, concerns remain about contamination and the risk it may pose when used in sensitive areas.
Several studies have suggested that long-term use of talcum powder in the genital area may increase the risk of ovarian cancer. These findings have been taken seriously by researchers, health organizations, and now the courts.
Talcum powder used in the genital area may increase the risk of ovarian cancer. — International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), World Health Organization
Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not issued a full ban on talcum powder, it has acknowledged safety concerns and continues to study its effects.
In 2020, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) found asbestos in samples of Johnson’s Baby Powder, prompting a recall of over 30,000 bottles. — FDA Official Notice, October 2019
The most well-known verdict came in 2017 when a Los Angeles jury awarded $417 million to Eva Echeverria, a woman diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer. She had used Johnson & Johnson baby powder daily for years. The jury found the company failed to warn consumers of the risk despite having internal documents that showed they were aware.
Thousands of lawsuits allege that Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder cause ovarian cancer and mesothelioma, resulting in billions in verdicts and ongoing settlement negotiations.
| Year | Case Name | Verdict/Settlement | Location | Key Facts |
| 2017 | Eva Echeverria v. J&J | $417M | California | Ovarian cancer, long-term use |
| 2018 | St. Louis Class Action | $4.7B (later reduced) | Missouri | 22 plaintiffs, ovarian cancer |
| 2020 | Multidistrict Litigation (MDL 2738) | Ongoing | Federal Court | Consolidated federal talc lawsuits |
| 2023 | J&J Bankruptcy Rejected | — | New Jersey | Attempt to limit liability dismissed |
As of this year, Johnson & Johnson is still facing over 40,000 lawsuits through a federal MDL (multidistrict litigation). Many of these claims are from women who developed ovarian cancer and believe talcum powder played a role.
The company attempted to shield itself by creating a subsidiary and filing for bankruptcy, a move the courts rejected. This decision has allowed more claims to move forward. Settlement talks are ongoing. Some victims have already received compensation, while others are waiting for their cases to be heard.
In product liability law, companies must make sure their goods are secure and alert consumers to any known risks. Talcum powder cases fall into this legal category, typically under:
To win a talcum powder lawsuit, a person must usually show that:
Medical records, purchase history, and testimony from healthcare providers are often used as evidence.
Every state has its time limits for filing lawsuits. In Oklahoma, the statute of limitations for product liability cases is generally two years from the date of diagnosis. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
That’s why it’s essential for Tulsa residents who believe talcum powder caused their cancer to speak with an attorney familiar with this type of case. A product liability attorney can help review your situation, collect the necessary documentation, and advise you on your legal options.
Lawsuits claim that Johnson & Johnson failed to warn consumers that long-term use of talcum powder may raise the risk of mesothelioma or ovarian cancer.
If you regularly used talcum powder for feminine hygiene and were later diagnosed with ovarian cancer, you may qualify. A case evaluation can help confirm eligibility.
Yes. Oklahoma has a two-year statute of limitations for product liability claims, typically starting from the date of diagnosis.
Medical records, product use history, pathology reports, and witness testimony can all support your claim.
No. The company continues to deny liability, but courts have awarded significant compensation based on evidence presented by plaintiffs.
Both are options. Multidistrict litigation (MDL) handles many similar cases, but your lawyer can advise whether an individual suit is more appropriate.
The lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson have shed light on the risks associated with talcum powder, especially for women who use it regularly. Studies, internal documents, and legal verdicts all point toward serious safety concerns, so many people are now stepping forward to seek justice.
If you or someone you love in Tulsa has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and used baby powder regularly, you may have a right to pursue legal action. Understanding your rights is the first step. A trusted product liability attorney can walk you through what comes next—without pressure and with your health and dignity in mind.
To learn more about your legal options, contact Graves McLain Injury Lawyers for guidance. Our team is here to support Oklahoma families seeking answers and accountability.
When injury victims need a law firm with a reputation for excellence, turn to Graves McLain Injury Lawyers. We are a top-rated personal injury firm determined to be the best. With decades of award-winning representation, our clients recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together.
