As of 2025, thousands of Americans and individuals worldwide continue to pursue legal claims related to Johnson & Johnson’s (J&J) talcum powder products. These lawsuits allege that prolonged use of talc-based powders—including Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower—led to serious health issues such as ovarian cancer and mesothelioma due to asbestos contamination.
Legal Background
- J&J has attempted multiple times to settle mass claims via bankruptcy filings by subsidiaries like Red River Talc and LTL Management. Plans ranging from $6.5 to $9 billion were rejected, with judges citing procedural flaws and unfair claim releases.
- As a result, cases have returned to traditional civil courts, where multidistrict litigation (MDL) in New Jersey involves over 60,000 plaintiffs.
- Bellwether trials are beginning this year. A U.S. magistrate ordered that women plaintiffs must have representation in settlement discussions, underscoring growing demand for fairness.
Who Can File a Lawsuit?
To be potentially eligible, you must generally meet the following:
- Medical Diagnosis
- Diagnosed with ovarian cancer—typically epithelial or endometrioid types—or mesothelioma after sustained talc use.
- History of Talc Use
- Regular, prolonged use of J&J talc-based products (e.g., Baby Powder, Shower-to-Shower), especially in the genital area for ovarian cancer claims. Frequency of four or more years is often cited.
- Timing of Use and Diagnosis
- For ovarian cancer: Use prior to menopause, and diagnosed within a decade of last talc use; typically age at diagnosis under 65.
- For mesothelioma: Claimants must demonstrate exposure to asbestos-contaminated talc products.
- Statute of Limitations
- Must file within your state’s legal time limit (often 1–3 years post-diagnosis).
- Wrongful Death Claims
- If the affected individual passed away, immediate family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit for reimbursement of medical costs, funeral expenses, and emotional damages.
Summary Table: Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criterion | Ovarian Cancer Claims | Mesothelioma Claims |
| Medical Diagnosis | Ovarian cancer (post-talc) | Mesothelioma (asbestos-linked) |
| Product Use | Long-term use (esp. genital application) | Exposure to talc/asbestos-containing products |
| Timing | Use before menopause; diagnosis <10 yrs later | Not always tied to menopause |
| Age | Generally under 65 at diagnosis | No strict age cut-off |
| Statute of Limitations | Must file within state-specific time frame | Same |
| Family Claims | N/A | Eligible for wrongful death claims |
What Evidence Strengthens Your Claim?
To support eligibility, gathering documentation is essential:
- Medical diagnosis records.
- Proof of talc product use (receipts, packaging, photos).
- Expert medical opinions linking the illness to talc exposure.
- Testimony or scientific studies regarding asbestos contamination risk.
Final Thoughts
You may qualify for the talcum powder lawsuit if:
- You’ve been diagnosed with ovarian cancer or mesothelioma.
- You have a documented history of long-term use of J&J talc products.
- You meet the specific timing and age-related criteria.
- You file within your state’s statute of limitations.
- In case of a deceased loved one, family members may pursue wrongful death claims.
A growing number of plaintiffs are proceeding through court bellwether trials as settlement strategies via bankruptcy continue to fail.
