Dangers Of Using Talc Powder: Talcum powder originates from talc, which contains components such as oxygen, silicon, and magnesium.
This mineral, when turned in powder, is very capable of absorbing moisture and reduces friction, letting the skin to stay dry and preventing rashes from developing. Talc is used in cosmetic products, like facial, baby, and adult body powder products.
Talc and Cancer
Talc contains asbestos in natural form, a substance that has been popular for causing lung cancers whenever it is inhaled. But because of this, the talcum powders we have in our homes are free from the substance. Yet, there are still some health dangers related with the use of talcum powder, like:
1. Lung Cancer|: Talcum powder that we use today don’t contain asbestos. But some people still have risk for having lung cancer and other respiratory diseases after inhaling talc-based products. These people include millers and talc miners who can also be exposed to ingredients, like radon when they are underground.
2. Ovarian Cancer: For a long time, talcum powder has been connected with ovarian cancer. The risk is bigger if powder particles are putted on condoms, diaphragms, sanitary napkins, and around the genital area.
The particles will go from the vagina to the ovaries and will develop cancer. Many studies show that talcum powder and ovarian cancer are connected, even though the findings are still mixed in other research. Some studies show that the risk ovarian cancer is small, but because talc is in many products, it is very important to understand that the risk is big.
3. Other Cancers: There is no direct connection with other cancers, but one study suggests talcum powder can increase risk of having endometrial or uterine cancer. This is common in women who past their menopausal period. Also there are limited studies that saw the potential relationship between talc exposure and other cancers, including stomach cancer.
Experts warn consumers that talc can be carcinogenic. Even though there no data, inhaled talc that don’t have asbestos is safe for humans. Yet, limited evidence says that talc-based powder can cause cancer, particularly when it is used for perineal or genital hygiene.
