Talcum Powder
Cancer Lawsuit
2026 Guide

The talcum powder lawsuits allege that Johnson & Johnson and other talc manufacturers knew their products were contaminated with asbestos and/or that talc itself causes ovarian cancer, but failed to warn consumers. Plaintiffs — primarily women who used talc-based products for feminine hygiene — developed ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, or other cancers and are seeking compensation.

Johnson & Johnson has attempted to settle the talcum powder lawsuits through a controversial bankruptcy strategy using a subsidiary called LTL Management. In 2023, J&J proposed an $8.9 billion settlement. However, courts have been sceptical of this approach and litigation continues. Individual trial verdicts against J&J have reached hundreds of millions of dollars.

The statute of limitations varies by state, typically 2–3 years from your cancer diagnosis or from when you learned talcum powder may have caused it. Given the ongoing litigation and settlement negotiations, filing sooner is strongly recommended to preserve your rights.

The primary products are Johnson's Baby Powder and Shower to Shower body powder. However, other talc-based products from various manufacturers may also be included. The key factor is regular, long-term use of talc-based body powder, particularly in the genital area.

Johnson & Johnson discontinued talc-based Baby Powder in the US and Canada in 2020. In 2023, J&J announced it would discontinue talc-based Baby Powder globally. The company now sells a cornstarch-based version of Baby Powder. However, women who used the talc-based version for years may still file lawsuits.