Talcum powder use is prevalent, especially among women. For years, it has been advertised as a safe and healthy way to stay fresh. But, many women don’t know the health risk it poses. The link between talcum powder & ovarian cancer has been growing since the 1970s. Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about talcum powder products below.
1. What is talcum powder?
You’ve probably heard of talcum powder products, but you may not know exactly what talc is. Talc is made up of elements such as silicon, oxygen, and magnesium. As a product, it is used to prevent rashes, keep skin dry, and reduce friction.
2. What products will I find talc in?
Talc is in many cosmetic products, such as baby powder. It can also be found in most face, body, and deodorizing powders. Several of Johnson and Johnson’s products contain talc, such as Johnson’s ® baby powder and Shower to Shower ® body powder. These products have led to an increase in baby powder lawsuits.
3. When is talcum powder use dangerous?
Talcum powder is dangerous when used on the genitals as a cleansing or freshening product. Perineal, or genital use, of talcum powder products is linked to ovarian cancer. Unfortunately, many women are not aware of the dangerous side effects to this type of talc powder use. Talc powder is sometimes used on sanitary napkins or condoms, but is also used alone.
4. How are talcum powder and ovarian cancer linked?
Talc particles were first found in ovarian tumors in the 1970s. Since then, the research linking the two has grown. When used on the genitals, talcum powder can travel through the vagina and fallopian tubes into the ovaries, where it can cause inflammation. This use of talcum powder is posited to increase the risk of ovarian cancer by 33 percent.
5. Why are there no warnings on talcum powder products?
Talcum powder product manufacturers, such as Johnson & Johnson, have generally overlooked the link between talcum powder & ovarian cancer. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not have the authority to review safety information for cosmetic products. Although the FDA acknowledges the risks of talc powder use, it has not responded to many citizen petitions over the years. So, the products continue to be sold without a warning.
