Cancer—the six letter word “C” is the diagnosis no one ever wants to receive. For many people “getting cancer” tops their list of fears. Just hearing the word “cancer” can evoke a plethora of emotions. Anxiety, fear, and even depression are all common experiences when a person learns that cancer has become a part of his or her world. However, the very first emotion that usually strikes a person who has just received a cancer diagnosis is shock or utter disbelief. Why?—is often the question that everyone wants to be answered, and rightfully so.
It is completely natural and logical for a person to want to know what caused his or her cancer to develop. Often doctors look at several areas when they try to offer an opinion as to how the cancer started. First, they look to see whether the person engaged in any high-risk behaviors. Smoking has been linked to numerous types of cancers. Family history is also another big factor. Certain types of cancers seem to run in families. But, absent either of these factors, people are often left wondering.
Such was the case for a California woman who was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer. She did not have a family history of ovarian cancer, nor did she seem to be at a high risk. For her, the diagnosis just did not make sense. Then her daughter told her about an ad she had seen; that discussed the potential link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer—that is when it all started to make sense for her. The California woman was a loyal Johnson & Johnson baby powder user. In fact, she had used the product for 45 years, beginning at age 15 and was still using the product at the time of her cancer diagnosis. Many women, including this woman, use baby powder for the purpose of feminine hygiene.
The woman then brought suit against the Johnson & Johnson, alleging that the company failed to properly warn women of the potential dangers of talc, the mineral used in baby powder. This month, a Missouri jury agreed with the woman. The jury found against Johnson & Johnson and awarded the woman more than $70 million dollars in damages. The California woman represents the third successful lawsuit against the baby powder giant. All three cases have been in St. Louis. In the two other cases, juries awarded Plaintiffs $55 million and $72 million.
The California woman told reporters that she felt “happy” and “relieved”—as she should be. She is one of the fortunate plaintiffs. Not every suit against Johnson & Johnson has been successful. In fact, in the company’s home state of New Jersey, a judge tossed out two other cases citing a lack of evidence. Johnson & Johnson has said that the company will appeal all three losses, believing that their product is safe. In the meantime, another case against the company will begin in November—also in St. Louis.
If you or a loved one became seriously ill or were injured after using a product it is important to know that you may have legal recourse for the injuries you suffered. The attorneys at the Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. have helped countless injury victims, in both Kansas and Missouri, obtain compensation for their injuries. Our compassionate team of attorneys will fight for your rights and make the wrongdoers pay. To schedule an initial consultation with one of our experienced Kansas City Personal Injury Attorneys, contact Hubbard & Kurtz, L.L.P. today at (816) 472-4673. We look forward to helping you obtain the justice you deserve.