BALTIMORE, MD—A coalition of 42 attorneys general has announced a $700 million settlement with Johnson & Johnson over its marketing of the Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower products.

The attorneys general allege (PDF) that Johnson & Johnson misled consumers about the safety of the talc-based products, which have been linked to ovarian cancer. The company has agreed to stop selling the products in the United States.

“Many Marylanders who, for decades, trusted that the personal care products they were using were safe and pure, are now suffering horrific consequences. It is inexcusable,” said Attorney General Anthony G. Brown in a statement. “We will hold companies who jeopardize public health by promoting and selling products that may contain harmful, cancer-causing substances accountable for their actions.”

Johnson & Johnson has agreed not to manufacture, sell, distribute, or promote its talc-based baby, body, and cosmetic products in the United States. The attorneys general allege that the company knew that its talc powder products were sometimes tainted with carcinogenic asbestos, which has been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer among women who use it in the genital area.

The company also faces allegations that talc in the baby powder products has caused serious health issues, including mesothelioma and ovarian cancer. The settlement (PDF) is pending approval by a court.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

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