Historic settlement for over 1,300 survivors of clergy and adult abuse within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles, marking a pivotal moment for justice.
May 1, 2019
An investigative report shines a light on the company’s deception about asbestos-contaminated baby powder
Aware that its talcum powder-based products tested positive for asbestos, Johnson & Johnson executives went to great lengths to hide the dangerous truth from the public and regulators, according to internal company documents examined by Reuters. The investigation documented a pattern of lack of transparency on the part of the company and comes out in the midst of thousands of lawsuits filed against the company. Plaintiffs in those lawsuits claim that the company’s talc causes both mesothelioma and ovarian cancer.
J&J’s baby powder and other talc products produced $420 million in revenue in 2017. The memos, internal reports, and other confidential documents that courts have compelled J&J to turn over demonstrate several key points:
Talcum powder products are considered cosmetics. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act defines cosmetics as “articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human body . . . for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering appearance.” Under the law, cosmetics, including J&J talcum powder products, must be safe for consumers to use according to the instructions on the label. J&J has legal responsibility for the labeling of its products and public safety concerning the use of its products.
Asbestos carries with it a long latency period. For mesothelioma, it can be 20 years or longer after the initial exposure before symptoms appear. There is no cure for mesothelioma.
How Can Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel Help?
Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel is a mid-sized plaintiffs’ firm with experience in mesothelioma asbestos lawsuits. The asbestos attorneys are fighting to hold manufacturers responsible in mesothelioma asbestos lawsuits for failing to adequately protect consumers. If you suffer from mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure, the asbestos attorneys at Waters Kraus Paul & Siegel will fight for the compensation you deserve. Email us or call our asbestos attorneys at 800.226.9880 to discuss your potential mesothelioma asbestos lawsuit.
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