Every year nearly 22,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer in the US. Out of these women nearly 15,000 will pass away because of this disease. The prevalence of this cancer makes it the fifth leading cancer in the US, and fortunately 2 out of 3 women who are diagnosed will survive (you are deemed a cancer survivor when you live past 5 years after your diagnosis). However, the number of women diagnosed with cancer could be cut in half. All it would take is a simple warning label on a bottle of talcum powder.
Talcum Powder Leads to Ovarian Cancer
Talcum powder is commonly used by mothers on their babies. It is an effective way of preventing diaper rash. However, the powder is so fine that some babies inhale it leading to respiratory issues. To counter this problem the manufacturers of the powder have developed corn starch based powders.
However, there are millions of women who use talcum powder on themselves each year. They sprinkle it in their perineal region in order to reduce chafing and discomfort. Studies have shown that those using the powder in this manner habitually (meaning every day for multiple years at a time), are significantly more likely to develop ovarian cancer. In fact, the first report of talcum powder being the cause of ovarian cancer actually dates back to the early 1970s.
Talcum Powder Warnings
For years groups have been petitioning to have a warning label put on the bottles of talcum powder warning women about the dangerous side effects of this otherwise inert mineral. For years those requests have been denied.
Currently there are no warnings on bottles of talcum powder that indicate using it daily in the genital region may lead to ovarian cancer. And every day millions of women still use this powder subjecting themselves to an increased risk of developing this cancer that kills thousands of women every year. For the cost of less than a penny of ink per bottle, the manufacturers could save thousands of lives.
Filing a Talcum Powder Lawsuit
If you have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using talcum powder habitually for years on end, you may be able to file a talcum powder lawsuit. This suit will do two things: first it will help you get the compensation that you need to cover medical bills. Second it will put pressure on the manufacturers of these products to include that warning label. Your lawsuit may help save the lives of thousands of women. To get started simply contact a personal injury attorney to schedule your free consultation.
