Talcum powder, once trusted for its gentle care, is now tied to one of the largest product liability lawsuits in the United States. In 2025, Johnson & Johnson faces growing legal scrutiny as tens of thousands of people allege that their talc-based products, contaminated with asbestos, caused serious health conditions. These include ovarian cancer and mesothelioma.
This blog provides a detailed overview of the talcum powder litigation. We’ll discuss the health risks, legal developments, potential compensation, and how victims can protect their rights. If you or a loved one has been affected, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Talcum Powder, and Why Is It Controversial?
Talcum powder is made from talc, a naturally occurring mineral composed primarily of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. It’s widely used in cosmetic products due to its moisture-absorbing properties, keeping skin dry and preventing rashes.
The controversy stems from the fact that talc deposits are often located near asbestos in the earth. Asbestos is a known carcinogen. When talc is not properly purified, it may become contaminated with asbestos fibers. This contamination has led to serious health risks when products are applied to the body, particularly in the genital area.
According to Forbes Legal Advisor, despite mounting scientific concerns over decades, Johnson & Johnson continued selling talc-based Baby Powder until 2020 in the U.S. and until 2023 globally. Victims allege that the company knew about the contamination risks but failed to warn users.
Health Risks: Ovarian Cancer and Mesothelioma
Ovarian Cancer
Many women have reported developing ovarian cancer after long-term use of talcum powder for feminine hygiene. Studies suggest that talc particles applied to the genital area can migrate into the ovaries, where they may cause inflammation and contribute to tumor formation.
- A 2016 study published in Epidemiology found that women who used talc-based powders in the genital area had a 33% higher risk of ovarian cancer.
- A 2018 pooled analysis of over 250,000 women across four studies also found a modest increase in risk.
As per an article on Drugwatch titled Talcum Powder Lawsuit Settlements, victims argue that if they had been informed of these risks, they would have chosen safer alternatives.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that forms in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. The only confirmed cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos.
Several lawsuits have shown that inhaling talc-based powders contaminated with asbestos can lead to mesothelioma.
- Independent lab tests, as well as an FDA study in 2019, detected asbestos fibers in some J&J Baby Powder products.
- Mesothelioma cases have seen some of the largest jury awards, including one for $260 million in 2024.
History of Talcum Powder Litigation
The first major talcum powder lawsuits began around 2013. Since then, the litigation has escalated dramatically:
- 2016: $72 million awarded to the family of a woman who died from ovarian cancer.
- 2017: $417 million awarded in California in another ovarian cancer case.
- 2018: A Missouri jury awarded $4.7 billion to 22 women in a landmark verdict—later reduced but upheld on appeal.
- 2021-2024: Multiple mesothelioma-related verdicts in favor of plaintiffs, including multi-million-dollar awards.
These lawsuits allege that Johnson & Johnson knew for decades that their talc products could be contaminated with asbestos but chose not to warn the public.
Johnson & Johnson’s Bankruptcy Strategy and Legal Pushback
Facing over 60,000 lawsuits, Johnson & Johnson attempted to limit liability by creating a subsidiary (LTL Management) and transferring talc-related liabilities to it. A controversial move known as the “Texas Two-Step.”
- In 2021 and again in 2023 and 2025, J&J tried to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy for this subsidiary.
- These attempts were meant to force global settlements while shielding the parent company from ongoing litigation.
- All three bankruptcy filings were rejected by U.S. courts due to lack of financial distress and improper structuring.
As per Reuters, the latest attempt via Red River Talc LLC in March 2025 was denied due to flawed voting and failure to meet legal standards. This has put J&J back in court to face individual jury trials.
2025 Litigation Status and Mass Tort Developments
As of mid-2025:
- Over 60,000 lawsuits are active in MDL 2738 (federal multidistrict litigation) in New Jersey.
- Bellwether trials are being scheduled and are expected to begin in late 2025 or early 2026.
- State court verdicts are ongoing, with new lawsuits being filed daily since the third bankruptcy rejection.
- A special master may be appointed to review expert testimony and establish which cases proceed to trial first.
The litigation continues to grow. Experts believe that J&J may be forced into a global settlement if upcoming trials result in large plaintiff victories.
Settlement Offers and Compensation Amounts
Though J&J has not finalized any mass settlement through the courts, there have been multiple proposed deals:
- $6.5 billion proposed in early 2025 over 25 years—rejected by claimants.
- $8.9 billion proposed in a later bankruptcy plan—also rejected.
Mesothelioma Settlements
Victims who developed mesothelioma due to talc inhalation may receive:
- $1 million to $1.4 million on average.
- Some jury awards have exceeded $10 million due to punitive damages.
Ovarian Cancer Settlements
Victims of ovarian cancer may receive:
- Six-figure settlements if exposure and diagnosis are documented.
- Larger payouts possible in trial verdicts.
Who Qualifies to File a Talcum Powder Lawsuit?
You may be eligible to file a lawsuit if:
- You used talcum powder (e.g., Johnson’s Baby Powder, Shower to Shower) regularly for at least four years.
- You were diagnosed with ovarian cancer or mesothelioma.
- There is no family history or other clear cause for the diagnosis.
- The diagnosis occurred at least 10 years after talc use began (in ovarian cases).
Even if you’re unsure whether your condition is linked to talc, a qualified attorney can review your case.
Family members may also file wrongful death claims if a loved one passed away from one of these conditions.
What Evidence Is Needed?
To build a strong case, attorneys typically require:
- Medical records: Showing diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.
- Proof of product use: Receipts, photos, personal testimony, or witness statements.
- Expert opinions: Linking the condition to talcum powder exposure.
- Pathology reports: In mesothelioma cases, these often show asbestos-related cell changes.
The sooner you contact legal counsel, the easier it is to gather this evidence while records are still available.
How Law Firms Are Supporting Victims
Law firms involved in talcum powder lawsuits typically provide:
- Free initial consultations
- Help gathering medical and usage records
- Access to medical and scientific experts
- Filing within the proper state or federal courts
- Negotiating settlements or preparing for trial
Most firms work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront legal fees. Fees are only collected if you receive compensation.
What to Expect in 2025 and Beyond
Here’s what may unfold in the coming months:
- Bellwether trials will begin, setting benchmarks for future settlements.
- Regulatory actions from the FDA may tighten safety testing on talc products.
- J&J may explore a fourth settlement proposal now that bankruptcy is off the table.
- State-level cases will continue with individual verdicts.
- Plaintiffs may start receiving individual settlement offers.
These developments are crucial. Strong trial outcomes could pressure J&J into larger settlement deals for all claimants.
International Perspective
Lawsuits have not been limited to the U.S. In February 2025, U.K. claimants launched their own group action against Johnson & Johnson over similar cancer allegations tied to talc.
Governments are under increasing pressure to enforce stricter consumer safety laws regarding talc products worldwide.
Final Thoughts
The talcum powder litigation is not just a legal battle, it’s a fight for justice and acknowledgment for victims who were unknowingly exposed to harmful substances. These women and families deserve to be heard.
With lawsuits moving forward in 2025, and bankruptcy shields rejected, the courts are finally giving victims their day.
If you or someone you love has suffered from ovarian cancer or mesothelioma after using talcum powder, now is the time to act. Contact a law firm experienced in mass tort and product liability litigation. You may be eligible for significant compensation, and a step toward closure.
