Sarah J. Plant v. Avon Products Inc., et al.

Summary

In this cosmetic talc case, Sarah Plant developed mesothelioma after using cosmetic talc since she was a child. Plant sues four companies involved in the commercial talc industry, accusing them of exposing her to asbestos within the products and causing her mesothelioma

Plant claims that cosmetic talc asbestos exposure is the most likely source for her mesothelioma diagnosis. Her attorneys suggest that cosmetic companies knew the risks of asbestos in talc, yet concealed them for profit.

Representatives for the defendants deny these allegations, highlighting mesothelioma rates in talc mine workers that they say show no increase in risk associated with the product. Defendants state that studies detailing a relationship between talc use and mesothelioma are based on flawed science.

Outcome

Verdict for plaintiff.
Total damages: $29,139,692