The World Health Organization’s cancer agency has classified talc as “probably carcinogenic” for humans. This decision follows an evaluation of available evidence linking talc to cancer risk.
While the agency found “limited evidence” suggesting a connection between talc and ovarian cancer in humans, they reported “sufficient evidence” of cancer development in rats exposed to talc. Additionally, the agency identified “strong mechanistic evidence” indicating talc’s potential to cause cancer in human cells.
Talc, a naturally occurring mineral, is commonly used in products such as baby powder and cosmetics. The majority of people are exposed to talc through these products. However, the highest exposure levels occur among those involved in talc mining, processing, or product manufacturing.
Numerous studies have consistently shown an increased rate of ovarian cancer among women who use talc in the genital area. However, the possibility of talc contamination with asbestos, a known carcinogen, complicates the research. As a result, a definitive causal link between talc and ovarian cancer has not been established.
It’s important to note that this classification does not definitively prove that talc causes cancer in all cases. An independent expert emphasized the need to avoid misinterpreting the announcement as conclusive evidence of cancer causation. The agency’s focus was on assessing talc’s potential to cause cancer under specific conditions, rather than establishing a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
This news comes shortly after a significant settlement between Johnson & Johnson and claimants alleging the company misled consumers about the safety of its talc-based powder products. While Johnson & Johnson denied wrongdoing, the company discontinued the product’s sale in North America in 2020.
In a separate announcement, the WHO’s cancer agency also classified acrylonitrile, a chemical used in polymer production, as “carcinogenic to humans.” This classification is based on sufficient evidence linking acrylonitrile to lung cancer.
Source: Guardian News
2 Responses
I had no idea Talc could be harmful 😳 thank you for sharing 🙌
Thank you very much for sharing.