The Link Between Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer

In June of 2013, Cancer Prevention Research published a study which shows women who used talcum powder products in their groin area had a 20 to 30 % increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. Other studies have made similar conclusions.

When a user applies the talcum powder to the genital or groin area, the dust particles can travel through the vagina, through the fallopian tubes and into the ovaries. Once it arrives at the ovaries, it can lodge and cause abnormal cell growth.

Abnormal cells generally multiply quickly and form a mass or tumor. These abnormal cells can then spread to or metastasize into other areas of the body. Approximately 20,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year. Ovarian cancer is often referred to as a silent killer because it typically goes undetected until it has already metastasized into the abdomen and pelvis. By the time the cancer has spread in this way, it is often fatal. An estimated 14,000 women will die each year as a result of ovarian cancer.

Testing for ovarian cancer will typically begin with a pelvic exam and may also include imaging tests such as a CT scan or ultrasound. A blood test can also help doctors diagnose cancer. Ovarian cancer cells produce a protein called CA 125 and the blood test can detect the presence of this protein. Ultimately, doctors may want to collect a tissue sample to confirm the diagnosis, and pathologists can confirm the presence of talc particles.

The earlier ovarian cancer is detected the better the prognosis. The stages of ovarian cancer are as follows:

Stage I – Cancer is diagnosed in one or both ovaries

Stage II – Cancer has metastasized to other parts of the pelvis

Stage III – Cancer has metastasized to the abdomen

Stage IV—Cancer has metastasized to other areas of the body.

Chemotherapy and surgery are the most common treatment courses for ovarian cancer.

If would like to discuss your talcum powder case with one of our award-winning lawyers, simply give us a call at 615-742-4880 (Nashville office) or 615-867-9900 (Murfreesboro office) or 866-812-8787 (toll-free). For absolutely no charge, we will review your case, answer your questions for and explain your legal options. We handle all talcum baby powder cases on a contingency basis so we only get paid if we win. And, we advance all case expenses so you are never out-of-pocket any money to pursue your legal rights. Get started today. Just give us a call.