Talcum powder, often referred to as baby powder, is typically used on genitals to reduce moisture, friction, odor. However, risks arise as talcum powder particles can travel through the female reproductive system, causing a variety of health problems.
The Problem with Talcum Powder
While beneficial for daily hygienic use, talcum powder presents a variety of risks due to its collection methods. Naturally occurring talc is often found near asbestos in the earth, and there is high risk of contamination while being mined. Standards were developed by the Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) in 1973 requiring that any talcum for commercial use must be thoroughly tested to ensure it is free from asbestos. However, reports reveal that megaconglomerate Johnson & Johnson, who remains the largest talc manufacturer to date,
discovered trace amounts of two different types of asbestos fibers in their talc mine. A plethora
of people are at risk, including those on the manufacturing forefront, as well as consumers who
have integrated these products into their daily routine for a decade or longer, suggesting longterm exposure to asbestos through contamination. Asbestos is a highly dangerous carcinogen,
meaning it can cause cancer from prolonged exposure.
Studies have been conducted to discover a definitive link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer. As the largest case to date, the Chronic Disease Epidemiology Group at the National
Institute of Environmental Health Sciences organized a study of 250,000 women to look for associations between the use of talcum powder and ovarian cancer development. While the
study did not offer conclusive statistical evidence, it did suggest a small effect and allows for
hypothesis generation for future research. The scientists leading the study believe that age may
be a factor, and women with intact reproductive tracts may have a higher risk as the powder particles can travel directly to the affected areas, causing irritation. The link between talc and cancer development will continue to be studied, as a larger study population may be necessary to get verifiable results. While ovarian cancer is very rare, it is extremely deadly, and it is crucial to understand its causes and risk factors to be able to prevent it.
An Ongoing Legal Battle
Johnson & Johnson is currently facing over 13,000 active lawsuits due to its decision to sell talcbased products while knowing the risks. Tens of millions of dollars have been awarded to
patients that suffered from reproductive cancers as a result of their prolonged talcum powder use, with juries concluding that Johnson & Johnson’s products were defective and that the company was negligent in its failure to warn consumers of the health risks it was aware of. Thousands of victims across the nation are joining the fight against the company to get justice for the crimes committed against them.
