Talcum powder litigation has become one of the largest mass torts in U.S. history, with tens of thousands of lawsuits filed against manufacturers like Johnson & Johnson, Colgate-Palmolive, and Imerys Talc America. Plaintiffs allege that long-term use of talc-based products—especially those contaminated with asbestos—led to serious illnesses such as ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, and meningioma. While many cases are still pending, several landmark verdicts and settlements have shaped the legal landscape and influenced future claims.
This article highlights the most significant talcum powder verdicts and settlements nationwide, explains the factors that influence payout amounts, and offers insights for victims considering legal action.
Largest Jury Verdicts in Talcum Powder Litigation
$4.69 Billion – St. Louis, Missouri (2018)
A Missouri jury awarded $4.69 billion to 22 women who developed ovarian cancer after using Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower products. The verdict included $550 million in compensatory damages and $4.14 billion in punitive damages, making it the largest talc-related award to date.
$2.12 Billion – Missouri Court of Appeals (2020)
After appeals, the Missouri Court of Appeals upheld a $2.12 billion verdict for 20 of the original 22 plaintiffs in the 2018 case. The court found that Johnson & Johnson had “knowingly sold products containing asbestos to consumers” and acted with “significant reprehensibility.”
$417 Million – Los Angeles, California (2017)
In one of California’s most high-profile talc cases, a jury awarded $417 million to Eva Echeverria, who developed ovarian cancer after decades of talc use. The verdict included $70 million in compensatory damages and $347 million in punitive damages. Although later overturned on appeal, the case remains a landmark in talc litigation.
$117 Million – New Jersey (2018)
Stephen Lanzo and his wife were awarded $117 million after he developed mesothelioma from using Johnson & Johnson’s talc products. The jury found both Johnson & Johnson and Imerys Talc America liable for failing to warn consumers.
Other Notable Verdicts
- $110 Million – Missouri (2017): Awarded to Lois Slemp, who used talc products for over 40 years before developing ovarian cancer.
- $70 Million – Missouri (2016): Awarded to Deborah Giannecchini for ovarian cancer linked to Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder.
- $55 Million – Missouri (2016): Awarded to Gloria Ristesund, who used talc for feminine hygiene for decades.
- $30 Million – California (2019): Awarded to Teresa Leavitt for mesothelioma caused by asbestos-contaminated talc.
- $26.5 Million – San Jose, California (2023): Awarded to Christina Prudencio for mesothelioma after childhood exposure to Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder.
- $18.8 Million – Alameda County, California (2023): Awarded to a woman with mesothelioma after 40 years of talc use.
- $15 Million – Connecticut (2024): Awarded to the family of Nicholas Barone, who died from asbestos-related mesothelioma.
- $45 Million – Chicago (2023): Awarded to the family of a woman who died from mesothelioma after decades of talc use.
Major Settlements
$700 Million – Multistate Settlement (2024)
Johnson & Johnson agreed to pay $700 million to settle deceptive marketing claims with 42 states. The settlement addressed allegations that the company misled consumers about the safety of its talc products.
$100 Million – Bulk Settlement (2020)
Johnson & Johnson settled 1,000 talcum powder cases for a total of $100 million, marking its first large-scale resolution of multiple claims.
$1.5 Million – New York (2019)
Johnson & Johnson paid $1.5 million to a 78-year-old woman with mesothelioma, marking one of its earliest talc-related settlements.
Factors That Influence Settlement and Verdict Amounts
Type of Cancer
- Ovarian cancer cases often involve long-term feminine hygiene use and may result in six- or seven-figure awards.
- Mesothelioma cases typically yield higher payouts due to the aggressive nature of the disease and strong asbestos links.
- Meningioma cases are emerging and may vary depending on scientific evidence and product history.
Duration and Frequency of Use
Long-term, daily use of talc products—especially in the genital area—strengthens the causal link and increases case value.
Strength of Evidence
Medical records, pathology reports, expert testimony, and internal company documents showing knowledge of asbestos contamination are critical.
Punitive Damages
Courts may award punitive damages to punish manufacturers for egregious misconduct, such as concealing known risks or failing to warn consumers.
Estimated Settlement Ranges
| Diagnosis | Estimated Settlement Range |
|---|---|
| Ovarian Cancer | $100,000 – $500,000 |
| Mesothelioma | $500,000 – $2,000,000+ |
| Wrongful Death | $750,000 – $3,000,000+ |
These figures are based on reported verdicts and legal industry estimates.
Final Thoughts
Talcum powder lawsuits have led to billions in verdicts and settlements nationwide. From multimillion-dollar jury awards to large-scale settlements, courts have consistently held manufacturers accountable for failing to warn consumers about the risks of asbestos-contaminated talc. If you or a loved one developed ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, or another talc-related illness, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
Consulting a qualified talcum powder attorney can help you understand your options, gather evidence, and pursue justice through settlement or trial.
References
- Bryant Law Center. (2025). Talcum powder lawsuit verdicts & settlement amounts. https://www.bryantpsc.com/talcum-powder-verdicts/
- Helbock Law. (2025). Top talcum powder lawsuits & settlement amounts in California. https://www.helbocklaw.com/top-talcum-powder-lawsuits-settlement-amounts-in-california/
- Personal Injury San Diego. (2025). Largest talcum powder lawsuits & settlements. https://www.personalinjurysandiego.org/topics/largest-talcum-powder-lawsuits-settlements/
- Legal Case Review. (2025). Talcum powder lawsuits: Latest legal updates & claims. https://legalcasereview.com/talcum-powder-lawsuits-latest-legal-updates-claims/
- Showard Law Firm. (2025). Talcum powder lawsuit settlements. https://showardlaw.com/talcum-powder-lawsuit/talcum-powder-lawsuit-settlements/