Grandmother's Cancer Fight: J&J Baby Powder Accused

Siobhan Ryan, a 63-year-old grandmother, has accused Johnson & Johnson of 'corporate greed' after being diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer, which she believes is linked to her lifelong use of the company's baby powder. She is one of over 3,000 individuals in the UK pursuing legal action against the consumer health giant, alleging that they or their family members developed cancers, including ovarian cancer and mesothelioma, due to the product.

Ryan's diagnosis of stage 4b ovarian cancer in April 2024 followed the discovery of a large cyst. She recalls using the talc-based powder extensively from childhood through adulthood, including on her own children, unaware of potential dangers. Johnson & Johnson is alleged to have known about asbestos contamination in its talc mines for decades and to have concealed these risks, continuing to market the product until recently. The company only replaced talc with corn starch in its UK baby powder in 2023.

Despite a period of remission in October 2024, Ryan's cancer has returned, and she faces ongoing treatment and uncertainty about her prognosis. She emphasizes that her legal pursuit is not primarily for compensation but to hold the company accountable for its alleged actions. The case highlights concerns about the long-term health impacts of products widely used by families for generations.