Woman dies of cancer after using baby powder for her entire life; Johnson & Johnson ordered to pay $966 million

CALIFORNIA: A court has ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $966 million (Rs 8,576,679,300) in damages to the family of a woman who died of cancer after using the company’s baby powder for her entire life. The family had filed the case claiming that prolonged exposure to the product caused the cancer. The verdict came from the Los Angeles State Court after a 15-year-long legal battle.

The cancer, caused by excessive exposure to asbestos, affected Mae Moore, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 88. The compensation will go to her family. Johnson & Johnson had previously faced similar cases and been ordered to pay damages. However, the company's Vice President Eric Hass stated that it considers the current verdict unconstitutional and plans to appeal.

In 2023, Johnson & Johnson temporarily withdrew the baby powder from markets worldwide. Despite this, the company lost multiple lawsuits filed by consumers and continues to face several ongoing cases. Jessica Dean, Mae Moore’s lawyer, said the family is pleased with the court’s decision.