For more than 40 years there have been suspicions in the medical industry that the use of talcum powder is related to the development of cancer in the reproductive system.  Though the development of ovarian cancer is likely dependent upon a number of factors, there is some evidence that talc particles may travel through the vagina and fallopian tubes and to the ovaries, increasing the risk for development of ovarian cancer.

The first study linking the use of talcum powder to ovarian cancer was conducted in 1971 when researchers found that 75% of the ovarian cancer tumors contained talc particles.  A decade later, a Harvard University researcher found a 30% increase in ovarian cancer in women who used talcum powder products frequently.  A 1997 internal memo shows that Johnson & Johnson, manufacturer of Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower body powder, knew of the potential risk but believed the risk was too low to justify warnings or discontinue marketing their products.

Despite the original findings and subsequent studies that have supported the original research, talc mining companies and Johnson & Johnson continue to argue against the connection citing insufficient evidence. The company has also managed to keep its product on the market without a warning for nearly half a century after the original discovery.

Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against talcum powder manufacturers like Johnson & Johnson, by women or families of those who were diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using body care products containing talcum powder.  Thus far, juries have awarded nearly $5 billion to plaintiffs but about 9,000 lawsuits have yet to be decided and many more may be expected. On May 19, 2020, Johnson & Johnson has decided to stop selling its talc Baby Powder in the United States and Canada as it faces thousands of lawsuits filed by consumers.