BLOG: Talcum Powder and Cancer: Insights from the World Health Organization
Published on: 2/12/2025
Talcum powder has been linked to potential health risks, particularly ovarian cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies talc as "probably carcinogenic to humans," based on evidence from human and animal studies. Research shows an increased risk of ovarian cancer with regular talc use, especially in the genital area. Regulatory bodies like the FDA have proposed new guidelines to prevent asbestos contamination in talc products. Legal cases, including claims against Johnson & Johnson, have also emerged, although the company maintains its products are safe and asbestos-free.
Talcum Powder and Cancer: Insights from the World Health Organization
Talcum powder, a common household product, has been under scrutiny for its potential health risks, particularly concerning cancer. The World Health Organization´s (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has played a pivotal role in evaluating these risks.
IARC´s Classification of Talc
The IARC classifies talcum powder as "probably carcinogenic to humans," acknowledging the established link between talcum powder and cancer. This classification is based on evidence from human studies and sufficient evidence from animal research, indicating a potential association with ovarian cancer when talcum powder is used in the genital area.
Scientific Studies and Findings
Research on the link between talcum powder and cancer has also demonstrated a link between the use of talcum powder and a significant increased risk (RR=1.92) for ovarian cancer among women regularly using talc (Cramer 1982). A recent systematic review by Woolen et al. (2022) focused on frequent talc use (≥2 times/week), finding an increased risk of 1.47 for ovarian cancer. Similarly, a critical review by Taher et al. (2019) reported an overall odds ratio of 1.28 for perineal talc use and ovarian cancer. These findings suggest a causal relationship between talc use and ovarian cancer.
Regulatory Actions and Legal Developments
In response to ongoing concerns, regulatory bodies have taken steps to ensure consumer safety. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed new testing guidelines to confirm that cosmetic products containing talc are free from asbestos contamination. This initiative aims to address potential cross-contamination risks, as talc and asbestos can naturally occur near each other.
Legal actions have also emerged globally. In the United Kingdom, Johnson& Johnson faces claims alleging that its talcum powder products caused cancer. The company has consistently denied these claims, maintaining in public that their products are safe and have always been asbestos-free.