Johnson & Johnson announced on Monday that it will pay an estimated $5.5 billion to resolve tens of thousands of lawsuits alleging that its baby powder and other talc products cause ovarian cancer. The settlement represents a significant step toward ending a legal dispute that has affected the company for over a decade.
The lawsuits claim that the company’s talcum powder products are linked to ovarian cancer development. The $5.5 billion settlement is intended to address the numerous claims filed by plaintiffs alleging harm from the products. If approved, the deal could resolve the contentious legal battle that has resulted in multiple court cases against the company.