Consumers sue Johnson & Johnson over talc linked to cancer; science points out risk

More than 1,300 individuals in the state of Victoria, Austrália, have joined together in a class action lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson. The allegations center on the connection of the company’s talc products to the development of ovarian cancer, mesothelioma and other neoplasms affecting reproductive organs.

This move in Austrália comes after a series of notable lawsuits in Reino Unido and Estados Unidos. The high-profile Califórnia case, which resulted in a $40 million judgment for Johnson & Johnson in December 2025, set a significant precedent.

The American court ruling recognized that the company’s baby powder was dangerous and that the company had not issued necessary warnings to consumers about potential health risks. Global lawsuits reinforce growing concerns about the safety of products containing talc.

Legal proceedings in Austrália and Estados Unidos

The lawsuits filed against Johnson & Johnson highlight a complex relationship between talc use and the development of certain forms of cancer. Na Austrália, the class action seeks compensation for victims who claim they were harmed by the brand’s products, citing different types of cancer.

These processes emphasize the need for companies to ensure the safety of products made available to the public. The controversy surrounding talc raises important questions about corporate responsibility and consumer protection regarding components used in everyday products.

Talc: origin, use and controversial asbestos contamination

Talc, a naturally occurring mineral extracted in different regions of the planet, is widely used in both industrial applications and cosmetics. Pessoas may be exposed to the mineral during mining and processing, or, more commonly, through the use of facial powders and body powders, where it imparts opacity and a smooth feel to the skin. Tradicionalmente, talc is applied to genital areas to absorb moisture, reduce friction, control odors and reduce irritation or diaper rash. However, since the 1970s, concern has grown about the possibility of talc being contaminated with asbestos, a recognized carcinogen that, when inhaled, can cause serious damage to the lungs, including mesothelioma.

Asbestos and talc are minerals that are often found in geological proximity, increasing the risk of cross-contamination during the mining process. The industry has strived over the past few decades to produce asbestos-free talc, but the frequency and effectiveness of testing to ensure purity, as well as the extent of contamination in products sold over the past 50 years, remain uncertain.

Suspension of sales and the different types of cancer studied

In response to growing concerns and litigation, Johnson & Johnson announced in 2023 the discontinuation of sales of talc products worldwide, including Austrália. The company chose to replace talc with cornstarch as the base in its products. Contudo, other manufacturers still sell talc powder, which is also used in various industries and in other cosmetics.

Science has focused on the relationship between talc use and two specific types of cancer: lung cancer and ovarian cancer. Lung cancer may be associated with inhaling talc particles, a greater risk for workers exposed in industrial settings. Já Ovarian cancer has been correlated with the regular use of talcum powder in the female genital region.

Challenges in scientific research into the connection between talc and tumors

Research into the link between talc and cancer presents significant challenges. Difficulty remembering precise details about talc use — such as brand, quantity and frequency — after many years is an obstacle. Essa memory gap can compromise the accuracy of data collected in retrospective studies.

Furthermore, people who develop cancer may die before they are identified and included in research. Isso generates a selection bias, where studies may not fully represent the affected population. Tais limitations make the task of establishing a definitive causal relationship complex.

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Despite these challenges, some studies have explored the frequency of talc use and compared it between groups. Pesquisadores who analyzed frequent use compared to no use found an increased risk of ovarian cancer among the most frequent users of the product.

The complexity of the evidence and the position of Organização Mundial of Saúde

Scientific evidence on the relationship between talc use and ovarian cancer still presents conflicting results. Enquanto some studies in humans point to an association with higher rates of the disease, other research has not found any significant link. Essa disparity in results requires careful analysis to reach robust conclusions.

Despite inconsistencies in some studies, analysis of available evidence suggests a slightly increased risk for some types of ovarian cancer. The exact mechanisms behind this association, however, are not yet fully understood, indicating the need for further investigation.

In relation to other gynecological cancers, such as those of the uterus and cervix, studies that examined the use of talc in the genital region did not find evidence to suggest an increased risk. Asbestos contamination, present in talc in certain situations, is clearly associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.

However, cosmetic use of talc does not appear to increase the risk of lung cancer, as significant inhalation of particles does not occur in this context. In 2024, the Organização Mundial of the Saúde (WHO) updated its recommendations, classifying talc as “probably carcinogenic to humans”. Esta is the second highest risk category for developing cancer, putting it on par with substances such as the herbicide glyphosate and processed red meat.

Guidance for consumers concerned about the use of talc

Considering scientific discussions and recent risk classifications, individuals who use talc products and express concern about the potential increased risk of cancer are advised to reconsider use. Recomenda interrupt use or limit the amount applied, especially in sensitive areas.

The decision to continue or cease use must weigh the potential harms and perceived benefits. Para those who have used talc for long periods, assessing individual risk and searching for alternatives become even more relevant to minimize exposure and, consequently, the risk of developing cancer.

Updated recommendations for hygiene and health products

The evolution of information about talc encourages the review of personal hygiene habits and the search for alternative products. Muitos manufacturers already offer options based on cornstarch, known for its absorbent properties without the risks associated with talc.

Health professionals advise consumers to read product labels carefully and choose safe alternatives. Raising awareness about ingredients and researching products from companies committed to transparency are fundamental steps towards protecting individual and collective health.