Numerous women across the United States may have developed ovarian cancer caused by talcum powder, according to both new and old scientific data.

Law360 reports that nearly 40 published scientific studies show that women who used talcum powder face an increased risk of ovarian cancer compared to women who do not.

Dr. Anne McTiernan of the University of Washington recently presented this research at a congressional hearing, stating she had reviewed studies indicating that women could develop ovarian cancer caused by talcum powder.

More specifically, she reported that 38 epidemiological studies in the last 40 years had found similar results after asking women if they used talcum powder for feminine hygiene purposes. According to the summary of the data, women who applied talcum powder to their genital area were between 22 to 31 percent more likely to develop ovarian cancer compared to women who did not.

“Evidence suggests that these associations hold across diverse race and ethnic groups. [T]hese combined analyses also show increasing exposure to these products were also associated with increasing risk of ovarian cancer.” Dr. McTiernan told the House Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy, with a report she prepared a report for consumers in multidistrict litigation.

The multidistrict litigation consists of numerous similar claims from women who believe they have ovarian cancer caused by talcum powder, and that Johnson & Johnson failed to warn them against this effect.

Overview of Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer Correlation

Talc is a soft material that is ground up into fine powder that is good for absorbing moisture, which makes it a good hygiene product for conditions like dry skin or diaper rash. Numerous women use talcum powder for feminine hygiene proposes by applying it to their genital area. This use was allegedly encouraged by Johnson & Johnson.

NBC News reports that Johnson & Johnson is currently fighting over 1,000 lawsuits claiming that the company knew about the ovarian cancer risk, but did not inform consumers.

When talcum powder is applied to the genital area, researchers believe the talc may enter the vaginal area and eventually may embed itself in the ovaries. After a certain amount of years, the talc particles could fester into cancer cells.

The alleged correlation between talcum powder and ovarian cancer has been investigated by the medical community for years, leading to dozens of studies. According to the results of some of the studies, as many as four in 10 women stated they used talcum powder to treat their genital areas including applying it to their sanitary pads and underwear. Furthermore, Dr. McTiernan pointed out that talc has been shown to cause inflammation often associated with increased ovarian cancer risk.

“Women need to know about the risks of using talcum powder products in the genital areas and all consumers need to be informed about the contents of these products, including fibrous talc and asbestos, so they can make informed decisions about use,” Dr. McTiernan stated.

It is important to note that talcum powder is considered a cosmetic product, and the FDA does not have the authority to mandate a recall regardless of the numerous studies indicating a link. It is up to Johnson & Johnson to provide proper disclosures to consumers, as well as provide alternatives like cornstarch that do not pose such serious health risks.