Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer

Talcum Powder

Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common form of the disease in Canadian women. It is also the most serious. While all women have some risk of developing ovarian cancer – an abnormal and uncontrollable growth of any one of a variety of types of ovarian cells can causing malignant tumours – certain factors such as age, genetics and ethnicity, reproductive history and hormone replacement, and endometriosis can increase that risk. And, so can regular use of a familiar household product.

Baby (talcum) powder has been used to help cure diaper rash, in cleansing cosmetics, and as an air freshener in homes for years. But studies have found that prolonged use of the powder when applied directly to a woman’s genitals or on products such as underwear, sanitary napkins, tampons or diaphragms can increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer by 33 percent.

A primary manufacturer of baby powder insists it’s safe. But when presented with peer-reviewed and case control studies showing a direct link to an increased risk of ovarian cancer, juries have disagreed. In personal injury trials in America, women (or loved ones of deceased women) who have developed ovarian cancer through prolonged use of this defective product have been awarded millions in compensatory and punitive damages. Canadian women may be able to obtain similar awards for the pain and suffering this company has caused.

An ovarian cancer diagnosis is a life-altering event. Discovering that using a product you were led to believe was safe may have contributed to this terrible affliction can be especially devastating. At HSH, our product liability lawyers have expertise in handling these types of cases and we are passionate about helping you find justice from companies whose negligence has hurt you or a loved one.

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