Thousands of individuals in the UK, including cancer patients, survivors, and their families, are preparing to take legal action against Johnson & Johnson. They allege the company’s talcum powder products were dangerous and contaminated with asbestos, leading to serious health issues such as ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. This group action is poised to become the largest pharmaceutical product liability case in UK legal history.
As the legal action unfolds, here’s the latest information on this claim, with details about how affected individuals in the UK can seek compensation.
Background of the allegations
Lawyers assert that Johnson & Johnson was aware of the potential asbestos contamination in its talcum powder as early as the 1970s but failed to inform consumers, continuing to market and sell the products in the UK until 2022. This prolonged exposure has allegedly resulted in numerous cancer diagnoses among users.
Johnson & Johnson has consistently denied any wrongdoing, affirming that its talcum powder products are safe and free from asbestos contamination. Despite these claims, Johnson & Johnson has faced extensive litigation in the United States, leading to substantial verdicts and settlements.
Legal proceedings in the UK
An impending lawsuit is the first of its kind against Johnson & Johnson in the UK. Law firm KP Law is representing the claimants in this class action. The firm alleges Johnson & Johnson continued to sell talcum powder products in the UK despite being aware of the associated health risks.
Are Johnson & Johnson talcum powder products safe?
The World Health Organization has recently classified mineral-based talcum powder as “probably carcinogenic to humans,” intensifying concerns about its safety. This classification, along with the mounting legal challenges, underscores the importance of consumer awareness regarding the potential risks of talcum powder use.
However, in 2023, Johnson & Johnson replaced talc with cornstarch in all its talcum powder products, so current products no longer contain the ingredient at the centre of these claims and are now considered to be safe. This move has been seen as an effort to address safety concerns, though the company maintains its talcum powder was safe and free of asbestos.
For consumers, this change provides reassurance about the safety of newer products but does not resolve the allegations surrounding previous talc-based formulations (including ‘Baby Powder’), which have been available for sale in the UK and used by consumers for decades.
Next steps for affected individuals
The forthcoming legal action against Johnson & Johnson in the UK represents a significant step for those seeking accountability for alleged health risks associated with talcum powder products. Individuals in the UK who have used Johnson and Johnson’s talcum powder products and have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer or mesothelioma may be eligible to join the group action.
Lawyers hope to secure compensation for potentially thousands of cancer survivors in England & Wales, as well as the families of those who have passed away as a result of using talcum powder.
If you’ve developed ovarian cancer or mesothelioma after years of talcum powder use, you might be able to join talcum powder compensation claim. Together, victims can hold Johnson & Johnson accountable and seek the compensation they deserve.
