Johnson & Johnson announced Oct. 18 that the company is initiating a recall of its popular baby powder product after U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) testing uncovered the presence of asbestos, which can cause mesothelioma.
Just before that announcement, TIME magazine published a story on talc products, citing a study which states chrysotile asbestos, found in many talc products, causes mesothelioma. The recall comes after the company vigorously defended its baby powder for months.
Recall includes 33,000 bottles
Johnson & Johnson says it has launched an investigation into the contamination and will cooperate with the FDA. The company confined the recall of Johnson’s Baby Powder to one lot:
- Lot #22318RB
- Customers are advised to stop using the product
- They can contact the company for a refund
TIME report links talc to mesothelioma
The online news magazine published a study from the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Science, which determined 33 malignant mesothelioma patients contracted their disease through exposure to talc products.
Researchers found chrysotile asbestos in the talc, and TIME reports the substance is still used in insulation and construction materials. Researchers said some of the patients used the talcum powder daily for many years.
Taking action after a mesothelioma diagnosis
Both the TIME investigation and several studies continue to show a link between Johnson’s Baby Powder and mesothelioma. Medical experts say despite the company recalling only a single lot, it’s likely the product has jeopardized the health of people for decades.
Mesothelioma patients who used talcum powder for themselves or their children and suspect the product may have caused their disease can contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney here in Pennsylvania who will protect their rights.