Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer Litigation · MDL 2738

The talcum powder lawsuit.

Lawsuits allege that long-term use of talc-based powder, particularly in the genital area, is associated with ovarian cancer, and that Johnson & Johnson and other manufacturers failed to warn. Cases are consolidated in federal court. If you or a loved one were affected, you may be able to request a case review.

Free initial review · No obligation · No attorney-client relationship is formed by submitting a case review request.

The Litigation

What the talcum powder lawsuit is about.

Plaintiffs in the talcum powder litigation allege that long-term use of talc-based powder, particularly in the genital area, is associated with ovarian cancer, and that Johnson & Johnson and other manufacturers failed to adequately warn. The most widely litigated products are Johnson & Johnson's Baby Powder and Shower to Shower. Johnson & Johnson maintains that its talc does not contain asbestos, and it discontinued talc-based powder in 2023.

The federal cases have been consolidated as multidistrict litigation (MDL 2738) in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, now one of the largest active mass tort dockets in the country. An MDL is not a class action: each plaintiff retains an individual case, but pretrial proceedings are coordinated before a single judge. The litigation has also involved complex bankruptcy and settlement proceedings that continue to change.

67,000+
Pending cases in the federal MDL, among the largest active mass tort dockets
MDL 2738
Consolidated in the District of New Jersey for coordinated pretrial proceedings
Long-Term
Extended talc-based powder use is commonly cited as a key factor in claim review
Who May Qualify

Situations that often fit the claim pattern.

Eligibility for a talcum powder ovarian cancer claim depends on the product used, duration of use, timing of diagnosis, and the laws of your state. The following situations are the ones most often reviewed:

  • Used talc-based powder such as Johnson & Johnson's Baby Powder or Shower to Shower long-term and later diagnosed with ovarian cancer
  • Used talc-based powder in the genital area for several years before an ovarian cancer diagnosis
  • Diagnosed with fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer after long-term talc use
  • Underwent surgery, chemotherapy, or ongoing treatment for ovarian cancer after years of talc powder use
  • A loved one was diagnosed with ovarian cancer after long-term talc-based powder use
Compensation

Damages that may be recovered.

The value of any individual claim depends on the severity of the injury, the duration of talc use, and the laws of your state. No outcome is guaranteed. Speak with a licensed attorney as soon as possible, because statutes of limitations vary and may be short.

Medical expenses

Surgery, radiation, hospitalization, and ongoing or future treatment costs.

Lost income

Wages lost during treatment and any reduced future earning capacity.

Pain & suffering

Physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

Loss of consortium

Damages that may be available to a spouse for impact on the marital relationship.

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Reviewing this category of claim.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Talcum powder lawsuit FAQ.

What is the talcum powder lawsuit about?

The talcum powder lawsuits allege that long-term use of talc-based powder, especially in the genital area, is associated with ovarian cancer, and that Johnson & Johnson and other manufacturers failed to warn. The most litigated products are Johnson & Johnson's Baby Powder and Shower to Shower. The federal cases are consolidated as MDL 2738 in the District of New Jersey.

Who may qualify for a talcum powder lawsuit?

Generally, people who used talc-based powder long-term, often in the genital area, and were later diagnosed with ovarian cancer may potentially qualify. Eligibility depends on the product used, duration of use, timing of diagnosis, and the laws of the state where the claim is filed.

How long do I have to file a talcum powder lawsuit?

Statutes of limitations vary by state and generally run from the date of diagnosis or the date the injury was reasonably connected to talc use. Because deadlines can be short, it is important to speak with a licensed attorney as soon as possible.

Which products are named in the talcum powder lawsuits?

Johnson & Johnson's Baby Powder and Shower to Shower are the most widely litigated, but other talc-based body and feminine powders have also been named. Some claims involve asbestos-contaminated talc and mesothelioma rather than ovarian cancer.

What settlement or compensation may be available?

Damages may include past and future medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Any amount depends on the severity of the injury and the facts of each case, and no outcome is guaranteed. The talc litigation has also involved evolving bankruptcy and settlement proceedings.

Is the talcum powder litigation a class action or an MDL?

The federal talc cases are consolidated as a multidistrict litigation (MDL 2738) in the District of New Jersey, not a class action. Each plaintiff keeps an individual case while pretrial proceedings are coordinated before a single judge. Parallel cases also proceed in state courts.

Ready to Begin

Request a free talcum powder case review.

Tell us briefly about talc or baby powder use and any ovarian cancer diagnosis. Your submission may be reviewed by participating legal professionals, legal advertisers, or intake partners where available. Submitting does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Created by a California-licensed attorney. A submission does not guarantee eligibility, compensation, contact, or representation.