Talcum powder is made up of a mineral, Talc, which is the softest mineral on earth.
Because of its chemical similarity with asbestos (a mineral known for causing various health conditions such as lung cancer), the talc deposits are often located near that of asbestos.
In early 1890s, J&J invented baby talcum powder and gradually, people started using it around genital areas.
In 1971, particles of talc were found deeply embedded in ovarian and cervical tumours and the close association with asbestos group was deemed responsible.
More research came in and talcum powders for use at home were required by law to be asbestos-free in 1973.
In 1992, research found that even without asbestos, regular use of talcum powder in genital areas increased the risk of cancer.
In 1994, J&J was asked to replace its talc-based powder with corn-starch powder or at least have warning labels on its powders; J&J did neither.
Various reports in early 2000s (by this time 90% of baby powder users were adults) indicated increased risk but were based on inconclusive science.
In 2009, Deane Berg in US became the first woman to file a lawsuit against J&J and she won.
In May 2016, J&J lost two more cases and was asked to pay $72 million & 55 million as damages in the two cases.
Within 4 months, 1800 new cases were filed against J&J and the company continues to appeal verdicts against it in higher courts.
While most of the 16,000 cases are based on link between talcum powder & cancer, the most recent ones allege J&J talcum powders to contain asbestos.
Media investigation reports suggest the J&J overlooked occasional occurrence of small amounts of asbestos in its talc.
J&J has constantly maintained that its testing found no asbestos in its baby powder after the US FDA’s tests discovered trace amounts.
In May 2020, J&J decided it will stop selling talc-based powder in US & Canada claiming that it was a part of a portfolio reassessment and had nothing to do with cancer.
