Germana Carillo There are numerous cases that indicate a possible link between the use of talc and the increase in cases of ovarian cancer in women, particularly when applied in the perineal region. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the WHO, has classified talc as “probably carcinogenic to humans”.
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Talc, a silicate mineral originating in shades of white, bluish, and gray, is derived from magnesium silicates. Historically, it has been used as an antiseptic, antiperspirant, absorbent, whitening agent, soothing agent, lubricant, dispersing agent, anti-adhesive, and anti-caking agent. However, it may have been causing harm all along.
Numerous cases of ovarian cancer in women have now been linked to talc use. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the evidence is “limited” but there are “sufficient” grounds to consider it a tumor-causing agent.
Talc is “probably” carcinogenic: new evaluations by WHO
Talc, widely used in cosmetics and baby products, is “probably carcinogenic to humans“, as declared by the International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organization (WHO).
An analysis conducted by 29 international experts from the Agency, set to be published in the specialized journal The Lancet Oncology next year, indicates a significant increase in ovarian cancer cases among women who use talc in the perineal area (pubic and anal regions).
In summary, the evaluation group has assigned talc the second-highest level of probability of causing cancer.
Another risk posed by talc is its potential contamination with asbestos, a known carcinogen. This contamination is hazardous both to workers during the production of talc derivatives and to the general population.
As noted on the WHO‘s website, the complete scientific assessment will be published in Volume 136 of the IARC Monographs.
