Thousands of individuals who developed ovarian cancer or mesothelioma following the use of talc-based products have filed product liability lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson and other potentially responsible entities, including manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. Major brands have been targeted in these lawsuits, which allege potential cancer risks associated with asbestos-contaminated talc products.

As of March 2024, Johnson & Johnson faces a staggering 53,796 pending talcum powder lawsuits within multidistrict litigation (MDL) proceedings in New Jersey. These cases, consolidated under MDL 2738 before Judge Michael A. Shipp in U.S. District Court, stem from allegations that the use of Johnson’s Baby Powder led to cancer diagnoses among plaintiffs.

One notable trial in Florida, involving plaintiff Bob Sugarman’s lawsuit on behalf of his late wife Marilyn Seskin, resulted in a mistrial on March 5. Seskin, diagnosed with a rare form of ovarian cancer allegedly linked to J&J’s Baby Powder, was the subject of the lawsuit.

March 1, 2024 Update:
Following a surge in talc lawsuits last summer, the pace has notably slowed down in recent months. Since the beginning of 2024, only 63 new cases have been added to the class action MDL, bringing the total pending cases to 53,796.

February 2, 2024 Update:
In January 2024, 34 new cases were incorporated into the talcum powder class action MDL, bringing the total number of pending cases to 53,767. This marks the third consecutive month of low volume after a substantial influx of cases following the lifting of the bankruptcy stay.

January 15, 2024 Update:
Although a significant number of new cases flooded the talcum powder MDL after the lifting of the bankruptcy stay, the pace has significantly slowed down since. In the previous month, only 4 new cases were added to the MDL, totaling 53,733 pending cases.

January 11, 2024 Update:
Investors of Johnson & Johnson have filed a class action lawsuit mirroring the personal injury and wrongful death claims in the talc baby powder class action lawsuit. A federal court judge in New Jersey has certified the class action, alleging that the company made misleading statements regarding product safety and research commitments.

January 1, 2024 Update:
The final week of 2023 witnessed limited activity across various class action MDL dockets. In the talcum powder MDL, there were only 5 new direct filings and a suggestion of death for one plaintiff among the 50,000 pending claims. Additionally, in the Paraquat class action MDL, a dozen fresh cases were directly filed, with 10 more transferred from other districts.

December 18, 2023 Update:
Over the last 30 days, another 400 talc cases have been added to the talcum powder class action MDL, bringing the total pending cases to 53,729, excluding those in state courts.

To pursue a talcum powder lawsuit, individuals must meet specific criteria, including:

1. A medical diagnosis confirming a cancer linked to asbestos or talc powder products. This typically pertains to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma, although eligibility may extend to cervical cancer or lung cancer diagnoses.
2. A documented personal history of using talcum powder for personal, feminine hygiene, or cosmetic purposes.
3. Ensuring that the lawsuit is filed within the statute of limitations applicable to the case, allowing sufficient time for legal action to be initiated.

Contact a expert of our talcum powder lawsuit team today!

Reach us by dialing (323) 763-8247!