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January 16, 2025
Two widely respected international health organizations have taken decisive steps to warn the public about health risks associated with talcum powder.
Both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have classified talc as a “probable carcinogen.” The news was published in The Lancet in August 2024 following a study by a group of 29 scientists from 13 countries.
The “probable carcinogen” label is the second-highest level of certainty that a substance can cause cancer, according to the WHO-IARC report. The findings are based on talc’s established links to cancer in animals and in humans.
“There were numerous studies that consistently showed an increase in the incidence of ovarian cancer in humans self-reporting the use of body powder in the perineal region,” according to the report. “Although the evaluation focused on talc not containing asbestos, contamination of talc with asbestos could not be excluded in most of the studies of exposed humans.”
The IARC also noted “strong mechanistic evidence that talc exhibits characteristics of carcinogens, including chronic inflammation and altering cell proliferation, cell death, or nutrient supply.”
Johnson & Johnson, which manufactures a range of consumer products containing talc, including Johnson’s Baby Powder, is facing thousands of lawsuits filed by cancer victims.
What Is Talc?
Talcum powder, made from the mineral talc, is a fine, smooth powder commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products. It absorbs moisture effectively, making it popular for keeping skin dry and preventing chafing. Talc is composed primarily of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen, and its softness makes it ideal for adding smoothness and shine to various products.
Talc is also a component in the manufacturing of plastics, ceramics, paint, paper, roofing materials, rubber products, animal feed, fertilizers and pharmaceuticals.
Why Is Talc Dangerous?
Talc is frequently contaminated with asbestos, a known carcinogen linked to mesothelioma and other forms of cancer. Talc and asbestos are frequently found together because they are both naturally occurring minerals that can form in similar geological conditions. Talc is often mined from deposits that are located near asbestos, leading to the risk of cross-contamination during extraction. Asbestos fibers can become mixed with talc, especially if the mining and processing methods are not carefully controlled. The presence of asbestos in talc products has been linked to serious health issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
How Are People Exposed?
According to the WHO study, “high occupational exposure to talc dust occurs during mining and milling, mainly via inhalation.” Workers farther downstream in manufacturing industries are also exposed to talc dust. The general population is exposed when inhaling or ingesting talc, and exposure can also come from dermal or perineal routes.
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