In the latest case against the healthcare conglomerate, a trial for a lawsuit alleges that Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder was responsible for the death of a woman due to her exposure to cancer-causing asbestos in their talc-based products. According to a Reuters report, the company, however, denied the allegation, and their lawyers said their talc product did not cause any form of cancer. The case began in South Carolina on Monday.

The conglomerate has been battling some 6,000 cases claiming its baby powder caused ovarian cancer. The lawyer accused the company of hiding knowledge of asbestos contamination since the 1970s and choosing not to warn consumers of the potential risks.

Reportedly, mesothelioma, a rare and deadly form of cancer is closely associated with exposure to asbestos, and it affects the delicate tissue that lines body cavities. While the link between asbestos and mesothelioma is established, scientists are divided on whether asbestos exposure can cause ovarian cancer.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 15, 2018 12:35 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).