Over the last 100 years, talcum powder has been a staple bathroom product across the country.

For generations, Americans have used this product for a number of hygiene purposes; its many uses seem limitless. However it has been discovered that talcum powder may potentially induce ovarian cancer in women who apply it to their genital area.

According to researchers, ovarian cancer kills approximately 14,500 women a year. Medical experts are now wondering if talcum powder increases the risk.

According to a study published in the June 2013 issue of Cancer Prevention Research, conducted by researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, women who used baby powder for hygienic purposes had a higher risk of ovarian cancer.

The study analyzed over 4,000 women: 2,041 women with ovarian cancer and 2,100 not affected by the disease. Both groups of women had used talcum powder regularly, including applying the powder to their genital area for hygienic purposes. The study found a 33% increased risk of ovarian cancer in the women who used talcum powder.

This study had matched the results of an earlier inquiry published in a 2003 issue of Anticancer Research which claimed that women faced a 30% increased risk of ovarian cancer when using talcum powder in their genital area. Researchers came to this conclusion after analyzing data from 16 separate research paper.

These and other research studies have shown an overall increase of ovarian cancer development in correlation with talcum powder use. Medical experts are currently warning women against using talcum powder on their genital area, with the risk of ovarian cancer in mind.

Overview of Talcum Powder Ovarian Cancer Association

Talcum powder began its association with ovarian cancer in the early 1970s, when scientists in 1971 first identified the connection between talcum powder particles dusting female genitalia and increased chances of the disease.

When women apply baby powder to their genital area, the talc particles can travelthrough their fallopian tubes and eventually embed themselves into the ovaries.

Researchers had detailed their findings The Lancelet. Their findings showed talc particles were deeply embedded in the ovarian tumors.

It is estimated that these particles can stay in the ovaries for up to eight years, before festering and overtaking the woman’s reproductive system.

What is Talcum Powder?

Talcum powder is composed of the mineral talc, containing magnesium and silicon, and is primarily utilized to reduce friction.

Johnson & Johnson has been the industry leader that has manufactured and produced a number of successful talc products, most popularly baby powder and shower-to-shower powder.

Talcum baby powder has been used for generations to prevent and treat diaper rashes, and to reduce skin irritation to the baby’s bottom overall. When it was revealed that talcum powder products could potentially cause ovarian cancer, it spurred a major stir in America’s consumer market.

Women who frequently use talcum powder for feminine hygiene and developed ovarian cancer may be eligible to file legal action. Potential claimants should contact a specialized lawyer, to determine if they have a lawsuit.