Minnesota Jury Awards $65.5M in Johnson & Johnson Talc-Asbestos Cancer Case

A Minnesota jury awarded $65.5 million to Anna Jean Houghton Carley, a 37-year-old mother of three, after determining that Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder products contributed to her diagnosis of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer linked to asbestos exposure. Carley had used the company’s talc-based baby powder throughout her childhood. The trial revealed that J&J continued to market these products despite alleged knowledge of potential asbestos contamination. The company ceased U.S. sales in 2020 and ended global sales in 2023.

For claims adjusters, this verdict adds to a growing list of high-value talc liability judgments, following similar awards in California, including a $966 million decision in October. These cases raise critical concerns for carriers handling general liability and excess coverage exposures tied to mass tort litigation. Adjusters may face increasing scrutiny over legacy product claims, evolving definitions of "bodily injury" triggers, and reinsurance exposure. The credibility of scientific evidence will also remain central as companies like J&J continue to contest these rulings.

With J&J planning to appeal, the case also underscores the protracted nature of litigation risk in the pharmaceutical and consumer product sectors. Adjusters should anticipate further developments and closely monitor the appellate trajectory, especially as it relates to evidentiary standards and settlement pressure in other jurisdictions.