With concerns rising about the link between using Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and the development of malignant mesothelioma and ovarian cancer, U.S. Congressman Steve Cohen of the 9th District of Tennessee has requested a cost analysis of the government’s costs for caring for these victims. On February 21st, the congressman requested that a review of federal spending be conducted by the U.S. Government Accountability Office.
Congressman Steve Cohen Points to Johnson & Johnson’s Role in Mesothelioma
Calling Johnson & Johnson’s actions “corporate malfeasance,” Congressman Cohen asserted that “hundreds of thousands – more likely millions – of men and women are now suffering from ovarian cancer and mesothelioma as a result” of the company’s continued use of contaminated talcum powder despite knowing that it was contaminated with asbestos.
His letter specifically asked the comptroller general of the United States, Gene L. Dodaro, to determine how much money various departments of the federal government – including the Departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs, Justice, and Health and Human Services – paid to provide health care and medical treatments to regular users of the talc-based powder who were diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma or ovarian cancer.
Johnson & Johnson Accused of Knowing of Risk of Mesothelioma and Ovarian Cancer
Johnson & Johnson has been named in tens of thousands of personal injury lawsuits by people diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma and ovarian cancer. These victims accuse the company of knowing that the talc in their product was contaminated with asbestos, yet deciding to continue selling the product without warning the public. Some reports have indicated that the company tried to suppress talc’s dangers and exert pressure on the Food and Drug Administration regarding testing methodology.
In closing his letter, Congressman Cohen pointed to the fact that mesothelioma, ovarian cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases are “entirely avoidable,” and wrote, “Taxpayers have a right to know the public price of this corporate malfeasance.”
If you or someone you love has been sickened by exposure to asbestos, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608 for more information.
