Baby powder is used to prevent diaper rash and keep skin soft and dry. Johnson & Johnson (J&J) is one of the most well-known baby powder manufacturers, and the multinational pharmaceutical company has long advertised its product as safe and effective. J&J baby powder contains talc, a mineral that absorbs moisture when turned into talcum powder. In nature, talc can contain asbestos, a carcinogen that causes mesothelioma, a particularly deadly form of cancer. Because of its fine texture, baby powder is easily inhaled once a bottle is opened. Inhaling asbestos fibers is inherently dangerous. In addition to mesothelioma, talc baby powder has been linked to ovarian and other types of cancers. 

Thousands of people have sued Johnson & Johnson after developing cancer allegedly caused by its baby powder product. Plaintiffs say that the company failed to warn consumers about the potential risks. In response, J&J implemented a controversial strategy. The company created a subsidiary called LTL Management LLC, in which its baby powder division was placed. The company then initiated bankruptcy proceedings for LTL. The strategy is known as the Texas Two-Step, and it’s designed to protect a corporation’s assets in the face of numerous lawsuits. Plaintiffs have appealed the move, and a court will soon decide whether Johnson & Johnson can move forward with this approach.

Lawsuits have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL), and the company has acknowledged billions of dollars in potential liability associated with the case. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer after using talc-based baby powder, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit for compensation. Contact Saddle Rock Legal Group for a free case consultation.