Johnson & Johnson says it will end sales of talcum-based baby powder in North America after facing thousands of lawsuits from cancer patients.Â
The company says its Baby Powder represents approximately 0.5% of the total U.S. consumer health business.
Lawsuits over the years have alleged that the baby powder was contaminated with asbestos and that it caused cancers such as ovarian cancer. Â
At multiple trials, J&J experts testified that asbestos wasn't detected in its baby powder in tests over 40 years.
In 2018, a jury awarded $4.7 billion in total damages to 22 women and their families after they claimed asbestos in the talcum powder contributed to their ovarian cancer.
J&J says existing talcum-based inventory will continue to be sold until it runs out.Â
Johnson & Johnson cornstarch-based talcum baby powder will remain available in North America.
Â
