UK Legal Battle: Thousands File Lawsuits Against Johnson & Johnson Over Cancer Allegations
Johnson & Johnson (J&J) is embroiled in a significant legal clash in the UK, with allegations from thousands of individuals claiming that the company sold talcum powder contaminated with asbestos. Over 3,000 people are pursuing legal action, asserting they or their family members developed ovarian cancer or mesothelioma due to the use of J&J’s products from 1965 to 2023.
Details of the Lawsuit
The legal proceedings are led by KP Law at the High Court in London. The lawsuit seeks damages against J&J and its newly established subsidiary, Kenvue UK, which separated from J&J in 2023. The claim alleges that J&J’s talcum powder was laced with carcinogenic fibres, including asbestos, and that the company concealed this risk for decades.
Status of Talcum Powder
In response to mounting evidence and public concern, J&J ceased sales of talc-based baby powder in the United States in 2020 and extended this decision globally in 2023. Kenvue has stated that the J&J baby powder “did not contain asbestos and does not cause cancer.”
Claims of Asbestos Contamination
Michael Rawlinson KC, representing the claimants, indicated that most talc deposits worldwide likely contain asbestos. He claimed that J&J was aware of the potential contamination through various reports, its own research, and existing scientific literature. Rawlinson accused the company of suppressing critical information regarding asbestos risks and attempting to shield the product from regulatory scrutiny.
Personal Testimonies
- Janet Fuschillo, a 75-year-old claimant, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer seven years ago. She used J&J’s baby powder since the 1960s, believing it was a safe product.
- Patricia Angell shared the story of her husband, Edward, who died from mesothelioma in 2006. His autopsy report noted the presence of talc and asbestos.
Current Landscape of Legal Challenges
J&J faces a multitude of lawsuits in the United States, with claimants alleging cancer diagnoses linked to using talc-based products. Recently, the company was ordered to pay approximately $966 million (£720 million) to the family of a woman who succumbed to mesothelioma, marking one of the largest judgments against the company to date. However, the payout may be reduced on appeal.
In the UK, the potential compensation amounts from court judgments are generally more limited than in the United States. This ongoing legal battle highlights growing concerns over product safety and corporate responsibility.
Company’s Response
Kenvue expressed sympathy for individuals affected by cancer and emphasized the importance of understanding the facts. They assert that the safety of J&J’s baby powder has been substantiated by rigorous testing from independent laboratories and health authorities worldwide, affirming compliance with all regulatory standards.
