Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has put forward a settlement offer of up to $5.5 billion to resolve tens of thousands of lawsuits in the United States alleging that its talc-containing baby powder caused ovarian cancer.
The New Jersey-based healthcare company aims to conclude a prolonged legal dispute that has affected its reputation and finances for years. The proposed settlement would cover approximately 69,000 cases, representing the majority of remaining talc-related claims.
Erik Haas, J&J's vice president of litigation, described the claims as "meritless" but expressed the company's willingness to settle in order to bring closure to the matter. The payment plan includes up to $3 billion to be paid next year, with no further disbursements expected before 2028.
Before finalisation, the settlement requires approval by legal representatives holding 95 percent of the ovarian cancer claims in both state and federal courts.
J&J maintains that scientific studies demonstrate talc is safe, free from asbestos, and does not cause cancer. The company has consistently denied any causal link between its talc products and cancer diagnoses and has since reformulated its baby powder to use cornstarch instead of talc globally.
In 2022, J&J ceased production and sales of talc-based baby powder worldwide, following an earlier discontinuation in the US market.
Background on Talc and Litigation
- Talc is a mineral commonly used in baby powder for its absorbent properties.
- Lawsuits allege contamination of talc products with asbestos, a known carcinogen found naturally near talc deposits.
- Legal action against J&J began as early as 2009, with mixed court outcomes.
- J&J's former consumer health division, Kenvue, now handles talc product liabilities outside North America.
While the company is confident it would have prevailed in ongoing litigation, the settlement is seen as a strategic move to focus resources on its core mission of developing life-saving medicines and devices.
