Pharmaceutical leader Johnson & Johnson has proposed a $5.5 billion settlement to resolve tens of thousands of lawsuits alleging its baby powder and other talcum items led to ovarian cancer, the firm announced Monday.

The major proposed agreement seeks to conclude a prolonged legal dispute that has burdened the New Jersey-based company over several years.

J&J indicated the deal addresses around 76,000 claims, covering nearly all remaining talc cases including those grouped in a federal court in New Jersey along with related state court matters.

The company noted in a release that the agreement depends on factors including the direct involvement of at least 95 percent of the outstanding claims.

J&J maintains its talc products did not cause cancer yet ceased sales of its talc-based baby powder in the United States and Canada in 2020.

Vice president of litigation Erik Haas stated the claims lack scientific basis yet the firm seeks resolution for closure.

While confident of prevailing through continued litigation as in most prior trials, this step lets the company move past the issue and concentrate on creating medicines and devices that save lives, he added in the statement.

Lead plaintiffs counsel Chris Seeger noted the settlement guarantees fair and meaningful payouts for injuries after more than a decade of extended cases and three unsuccessful bankruptcy attempts left many women and families awaiting resolution.

J&J has already resolved most suits claiming its talcum powder held asbestos traces linked to mesothelioma.

The firm also confronts a United Kingdom case over similar allegations filed in 2025. The representing law firm for roughly 3,000 claimants estimates the claim at more than £1 billion ($1.3 billion). Claimants say they or relatives developed ovarian cancer or mesothelioma after using the baby powder.