Appreciated for its soft and powdery feel, talc seems to be a harmless product, but did you know that scientists warn against the potential risks it represents since the 1960s?
Talcum is a mineral-based product used in baby powder and many other cosmetic products. Although published health studies show a link between the use of talcum powder and ovarian cancer, millions of men and women still use it to absorb moisture and promote freshness. In fact, it is still popular for the prevention of rashes in infants and young children.
Why be wary of this product?
From 2016 to 2017, the Johnson & Johnson brand has disbursed more than $ 700 million in lawsuits involving the harmful effects of talc in their products, including some cases of ovarian cancer.
Yet people still use products containing talc on themselves and their children. Perhaps they are not convinced of the potential health hazards of talc, although many studies and case reports clearly highlight its dangers.
The dangers you face when using products containing talc:
1. Ovarian cancer:
According to the American Cancer Society, many studies in women have investigated the link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer. When a woman applies baby powder or any product containing talc to her genital area, the powder particles can pass through the vagina, enter the uterus and fallopian tubes, and into the ovaries.
The first study suggesting the link between ovarian cancer and talc appeared in 1971 when talc particles were found in human ovarian and uterine tumors. Then, in 1982, another study also linked the use of talc to ovarian cancer. Since then, dozens of studies suggest a strong correlation between ovarian cancer and
2. Lung cancer:
Although inhalation of talc alone is not directly related to the development of lung cancer, some studies suggest an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. This is probably due to the different forms of asbestos that can come into contact with talc.
3. Other lung diseases:
Inhalation of the very small particles that make up talcum powder may cause lung irritation and respiratory distress. Even asbestos-free talc can cause irritation and inflammation of the respiratory system when ingested or inhaled.
4. Granulomatosis:
Talc granulomatosis occurs when intravenous drug users inject tablets containing talc for oral use. Talc is used in these tablets to hold together the components of the drug.
Talc injection into the blood vessels can cause arterial obstruction, loss of blood flow to bone tissue and granuloma formation in the lungs. Granulomas are formed by infection or inflammation caused by the presence of a foreign substance.