Can Talcum Powder cause Cancer?

A new study has revealed that certain famous Baby Talcum Powders can cause Cancer. Usually, Talcum powders are used by adults and for babies to releive Diaper rashes due to wetness, to prevent rashes and to absorb extra moisture. For years, Parents have been using Talc during diapering babies, until the Pediatricians started discouraging the usage. The American Cancer Society posted on its website that Talcum powder may contain traces of Asbestos, which happens to be a Carcinogen. From Literature of the 1960s, a possible relationship between Talcum powder and Ovarian cancer has been derived with no proof atall.

In a study conducted in 2013, about 20,000 subjects have been studied for their usage of Talcs...those who used Talcs everyday had 20-30% more chances of getting exposed to Ovarian cancer than those who ddnt use powders there. However, the reseearchers say that Talcum powder may be harmful if used around the Genetal areas, as they get absorbed into the personal parts of the human body, and not so hamrful if they are used just for Cosmetic purposes such as around Neck, Underarms and Face, as there was no proof of Asbestos contamination in Talcum powders when a study was conducted.

Some Doctors recommend using Talcum powder for babies, specially in Humid and Hot climatic regions of the Indian subcontinent, some dont suggest powders for pediatric use due to their Dusty and Cosmetic characteristics that could cause Sneezing and Cough. Some Powders contain Corn starch instead of Talc and are harmless..except for other allergies due to the fragrance added or any other existing skin condition. No matter what, either for Babies or for Adult use, dabbing Talcs or Powders down there is not a good idea, keeping the worry of Cancer aside

....Prathyusha