New Delhi: Talcum powder has been used in almost every household for over 125 years now, it is commonly used on infants to prevent diaper rashes. On the other hand, millions of women have been using it for their daily feminine hygiene routine. But have you ever thought, that the talcum powder you are using every day can cause cancer? Recently, the World Health Organization’s cancer agency has classified ‘talc’ which is commonly found in talcum powders as a ‘possible carcinogenic’ to humans. Since then the report has sparked widespread concern among people across the world.
The report was released after a working group of 29 scientists from 13 countries convened at the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in Lyon, France previous month and the data is based on this classification of ‘limited evidence’ of talc could cause ovarian cancer in humans. There has been sufficient proof it was linked to cancer in rats and ‘strong mechanistic evidence’ shows that it contains carcinogenic signs in human cells. The findings of the study were published in a new article in the journal The Lancet Oncology on July 5.
Talcum powder is made from talc, a mineral that is made up mainly of magnesium, silicon and oxygen. According to the American Cancer Society, since the powder absorbs moisture well and helps to cut down on friction, it helps to keep the skin dry and helps in preventing rashes. It is widely used in cosmetic products such as baby powder, adult body and facial powder.
Dr Atul Narayankar, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road told News9, “Talcum powder is also known as baby powder. It has been used for ages by millions of people for purposes like minimising sweat production in scorching heat, used in makeup products like blush or eyeshadow for smooth texture, and preventing diaper rashes and irritation in babies. Talcum powder is made from the softest known mineral known as talc which is composed of hydrogen, silicon, and magnesium. For several years safety of using talcum powder in daily routine has been a concerning question.”
Can talcum powder up your cancer risk?
Numerous studies have pointed out that applying a generous layer of talcum powder around the intimate area can cause ovarian cancer in women. This sudden revelation has created safety concerns for various women. Recently WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) alerted people by highlighting a concern that talc used talcum powder is carcinogenic in nature, meaning it has cancer-causing properties. “However, it is important to note more scientific research is needed to fully understand the risks associated with the usage of talcum powder on overall health,” said Dr Narayankar.
What does the WHO warning mean?
While purchasing talcum powder make sure to choose powder that has been labeled as asbestos-free talcum powder. According to Dr Narayankar, “Asbestos is a component found in talcum powder which has been suspected of causing cancer in humans. Most of the brands have started manufacturing talcum powder that does not contain asbestos in cosmetic powders to ensure the safety of their users.”
“To prevent the risk associated with talcum powder or cosmetic powder containing talcum powder, consult a dermatologist for expert guidance. There are reports of talcum powder contamination with asbestos which has carcinogenic properties. Pharma companies have faced lawsuits.”
Recently the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) alerted people by highlighting a concern that talc used talcum powder is carcinogenic in nature, meaning it has cancer-causing properties. What does the WHO warning mean? Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
