Some studies highlight the link between talcum powder and possible cancer risks, according to the Women’s Health Research Institute at Northwestern University. Talcum powder in and of itself is not dangerous. It is the talc that is found in talcum powder that can have trace amounts of asbestos in it that makes talcum powder dangerous.
Talc is found in many baby products, beauty products, and home improvement products that are still available on store shelves. You can even find some talcum powders that claim to be asbestos-free, according to the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. However, this does not guarantee that there are not trace amounts of asbestos within the product itself, which is a reason talcum powder can be dangerous.
Asbestos is a known carcinogen. It is a major hazard for workers in the construction and mining industries. It is also dangerous when used in consumer beauty and baby products, especially when it is inhaled. The more exposure that someone has in their lifetime, the greater the risks of cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Asbestos Exposure Risks
There are health consequences associated with asbestos exposure, including:
- Mesothelioma
- Lung cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Laryngeal cancer
- Respiratory problems
These are just some of the risks from asbestos exposure. If you have a history of using talcum powder and suffer from other forms of cancer, it is possible that there is a link. You can discuss your situation with a lawyer to see if you could pursue legal action to recoup some of the expenses for your medical treatment.
Ovarian Cancer
Specifically, the use of talcum powder may further the development of epithelial ovarian cancer. This is particularly problematic, as victims only notice ovarian cancer in the later stages when they are less likely to benefit from surgery, chemotherapy, and other interventions.
Talcum powder, when used in the genital area, increases a person’s risk of ovarian cancer. Some women use talcum powder every day over the course of many years. This can dramatically increase the risk level, which is why talcum powder can be dangerous.
Signs of Ovarian Cancer
Signs of ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect. Common signs include:
- Fatigue
- Back pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Menstrual cycle changes
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal swelling
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
These are just some of the signs of ovarian cancer. As the list demonstrates, other symptoms of ovarian cancer can be associated with other ailments. This can make it very difficult to suspect that anything is going on that is out of the ordinary.
The later that ovarian cancer is diagnosed, the less likely a patient is to survive. In essence, the mortality rate is directly linked to the staging of the disease. Because the signs are not very obvious until the later stages, it is difficult to detect very early-stage ovarian cancer.
Baby Powder Alternatives
There are safer alternatives to talcum and baby powder. These alternatives include cornstarch, baking soda, certain types of clay, rice starch, and oat flour. The exact alternative you should use depends on how you plan to use it and your personal preferences.
In some cases, no products are needed. Simply changing a baby’s diaper much more regularly or providing them with diaper-free time where they can air out can reduce their risk of developing diaper rash in the first place. You do not need baby powder, in this case, to keep your baby dry and safe. There are also some other products that you can use, such as diaper rash cream with coconut oil, that can be used instead.
For dry shampoo, there are versions available without talcum powder in the formula. Just be sure to carefully read labels so that you know what you are being exposed to. The same is true for aftershave products and cosmetics that may contain talc.
Call to Discuss Possible Legal Action
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, ovarian cancer, or other forms of disease associated with talcum powder usage, you could hold the manufacturer of the talcum powder accountable. There are even class-action lawsuits regarding baby and talcum powder that are ongoing because these products are known to be dangerous.
Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 794-0444 for a free consultation. We can answer any questions that you may have about the legal process in your options for recovering compensation related to your injuries.