What Kind of Cancer Does Talcum Powder Cause?

How Many Women Got Ovarian Cancer from Talcum Powder?

Based on recent studies involving thousands of women, those who used baby powder products are approximately 30% more likely to develop ovarian cancer compared to women who never used it. This means that over the course of her lifetime, a woman who uses talc increases her chances of developing ovarian cancer from 1.3% to 1.7%.

Related Article: Talcum Powder Lawsuit Update

What Does Talc Do To the Ovaries?

Women who use talcum powder for feminine hygiene purposes are at particular risk because talc has been found to contain asbestos, a known human carcinogen (cancer-causing substance). Scientists believe that when talcum powder is used in this capacity, talc particles can travel through the vagina, uterus and fallopian tubes to the ovaries. From there, it can take months or even years to dissolve, and studies have found that it can cause inflammation.

What Types of Ovarian Cancer Does Talcum Powder Cause?

Subtypes of ovarian cancer linked to talcum powder use include invasive serous tumors, endometrioid tumors, and borderline serous and mucinous tumors, according to a 2016 study published in Epidemiology [1].

How Can Talc Cause Mesothelioma?

People with mesothelioma typically get it by inhaling or swallowing asbestos for a prolonged period of time (years or even decades). Talcum powder contaminated with asbestos can become airborne, and the small fibers can enter the body through the nose or mouth. Asbestos fibers become trapped in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart, eventually leading to the development of mesothelioma.

How Does Talcum Powder Affect the Lungs?

Breathing in talcum powder for extended periods of time can lead to severe lung problems, including mesothelioma and even death. Use caution when using talcum powder on babies. Workers who have regularly breathed in talcum powder over long periods have developed serious lung damage and cancer.

How Can You Tell if Talc is Asbestos-Free?

There's no foolproof way to know if the talc in a product is truly asbestos-free without extensive testing of the individual product. Consumers should look at the product labeling to determine whether it contains talc and avoid it if it does.

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Again, if you got ovarian cancer or mesothelioma after using talcum powder, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a suit and we can help.