May 2nd, 2016 (Missouri State Court): Jurors found Johnson & Johnson liable for its baby powder product causing ovarian cancer and reached a $55 million verdict against J&J. The lawsuit was brought by Gloria Restesund of Missouri, a woman who had used J&J’s talcum products powder products (Baby Powder, Shower to Shower) for 40 years and who later developed ovarian cancer as a result.
During the 40 years in which Ms. Restesund used J&J’s product, multiple studies linked the use of talcum powder as a potential cause of ovarian cancer. J&J was aware of these studies, but failed to place any warnings on its products. As a result, Gloria developed ovarian cancer, which was treated with a hysterectomy and surgery and is currently in remission.
After a day of deliberations following a multi-week trial, the jurors returned an award of $5 million in compensatory damages and an additional $50 million in punitive damages against Johnson & Johnson. This is the second verdict against Johnson & Johnson. Another jury had previously found J&J liable for $72 million in a wrongful death case of baby powder causing ovarian cancer.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and has used talc powder or baby powder products, contact us at the number below. Lawyers at Levin Simes will perform a free consultation at no cost to you.