THE WHAT? Scotland’s Court of Session has approved a group legal action against Johnson & Johnson over allegations that its talcum powder caused cancer.
THE DETAILS Around 300 people in Scotland who developed cancers including ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, fallopian tube cancer and peritoneal cancer after using Johnson & Johnson baby powder have been granted permission to pursue their claims collectively. The court ruled that the claims have a real prospect of success and that group proceedings are the appropriate mechanism for the case. Johnson & Johnson denies the allegations, maintaining its talc products complied with regulatory standards, did not contain asbestos and do not cause cancer. The company withdrew its talc-based baby powder from sale in the UK in 2023.
THE WHY? The ruling marks the first group legal action of its kind against Johnson & Johnson in Scotland and forms part of wider UK litigation involving more than 7,000 claimants alleging harm from the company’s talcum powder products.
Source: Scottish Legal
