Talc

Talcum Powder - Safety Concerns and Information
Mineral talc in it's natural form can contain asbestos, but since the 70s this sort of talc has been banned (at least in "developed" countries). Therefore in the past, regular use of talc could well have proved lethal!!

There have been studies that show around a 30% increase in the risk of ovarian cancer for women with regular genital/perineal exposure to talc. However, the average risk level is about 1.4%, so a 30% increase takes this to 1.82% - still very low. Other studies don't support this link.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is part of the World Health Organization (WHO). Its major goal is to identify causes of cancer. It's evaluation of talc is:

- Perineal use of talc-based body powder is *possibly* carcinogenic to humans.

- Inhaled talc not containing asbestos or asbestiform fibres is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans.

So there is a possibility of talc increasing the low level risk of developing ovarian cancer in humans. If you wish to eliminate this risk (for example, if there is ovarian cancer in the family) you may choose to avoid talc on yourself and/or your daughter and thoroughly dry the area instead. There are also talc-free powders available (mostly made from corn starch, so you could go for the cheaper option of a pack of cornflour!).

Also, all users should follow the instructions on the packet and put powder onto your hand before applying it to your little one, and ensure you keep it away from their nose and mouth. You don't want them regularly exposed to large quantities of any fine particle as these can become embedded in the lungs and cause irritation and possible disease (particularly if susceptible due to asthma or underlying problems) as a form of air pollution.

Related links:

IARC (part of WHO): http://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Monographs/PDFs/93-talc.pdf

CRUK, including other ovarian cancer risk factors: http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/cancer-info/healthyliving/cancercontroversies/talcum-powder/