Add talcum powder products to the list of possible carcinogens to avoid. A group of physicians, consumer organizations and public health officials is petitioning the Health and Human Services department and the Food and Drug Administration to place warning labels on talcum powder products. At particular risk are those women who use such products frequently in the genital area. Many talcum products contain traces of asbestos, linked to mesothelioma and ovarian cancer.
The word 'talc' describes a wide variety of natural minerals and rocks, most of which are magnesium silicates. It has been found that commercial talc is more likely than cosmetic talc to contain asbestos; however, some kinds of consumer talc and products such as modeling clay and toy fingerprint kits used by children may contain trace amounts of talc and asbestos.
Tremolite asbestos and vermiculate, potentially harmful, may be present in talc as well. They are largely used in the auto, appliance and home building industries.
Precautions should be taken when using any products containing these substances.
By Joanne Williams