Johnson & Johnson Agrees to $700 Million Settlement with U.S. States Over Talcum Powder Cancer Allegations

Johnson & Johnson (JNJ.US) Agrees to Pay $700 Million to Settle Cancer-Linked Talcum Powder Claims with 42 U.S. States and Washington, D.C.

Moreover, Johnson & Johnson denied any misconduct in its settlements with states led by Florida, North Carolina, and Texas, asserting that its talc products are safe and non-carcinogenic. "This is a significant advancement in consumer product safety," stated Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody in a declaration.

Meanwhile, Johnson & Johnson still faces tens of thousands of lawsuits related to talc products, as well as a class-action lawsuit accusing the company of fraudulently concealing risks from shareholders. Data shows that as of March 31, approximately 61,490 individuals are still suing Johnson & Johnson over talc product issues, most of whom are women with ovarian cancer, and a small portion are women with mesothelioma (a cancer associated with asbestos exposure).

In recent years, Johnson & Johnson's baby powder and other products have been embroiled in controversy. Some consumers have accused the company's baby powder and other talcum powder products of containing asbestos, which has led to cancer in long-term users. Johnson & Johnson denied the allegations and ceased sales of baby powder containing talc globally in 2023.

Johnson & Johnson has long maintained that its talc products are not carcinogenic and that its baby powder has been sold for over a century. The company has won several related lawsuits in court, while some cases were dismissed before going to trial. Under the pressure of numerous lawsuits, Johnson & Johnson attempted twice to force previous consumers of its baby powder into settlements by using bankruptcy law, but both attempts failed.

Erik Haas, Vice President of Global Litigation at Johnson & Johnson, said in a statement on Tuesday: "The company will continue to pursue multiple avenues for a comprehensive and final resolution of the litigation related to talc products." "We will continue to address the claims of those who are unwilling to participate in our anticipated consensual bankruptcy resolution through litigation or settlement."