J&J Talc Cancer Verdict: $65.5M Awarded

A Minnesota jury recently delivered a $65.5 million verdict in favor of a mother of three who alleged that Johnson & Johnson's talcum products led to her developing lung cancer. The plaintiff, Anna Jean Houghton Carley, 37, claimed prolonged use of the company's baby powder, including throughout her childhood, contributed to her mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer. Her legal team argued that Johnson & Johnson knew about the potential for asbestos contamination in its talc-based products but continued to market them without adequate warnings.

During a 13-day trial, Carley's attorneys presented evidence suggesting the pharmaceutical giant failed to inform consumers about the risks associated with their talc products. Johnson & Johnson, however, has maintained its baby powder is safe and free from asbestos, vowing to appeal the jury's decision. The company's worldwide vice president of litigation expressed confidence that an appellate court would overturn the verdict, dismissing the lawsuits as based on "junk science."

This judgment is the latest in a series of legal challenges against Johnson & Johnson regarding talc powder, with claims linking it to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma. The company has since ceased selling talc-based powders globally, with the U.S. market discontinuation occurring in 2020 and worldwide in 2023. Earlier verdicts this year also saw significant awards against the company in similar cases.