Some also say that using talcum powder in the vaginal region may elevate the risk of uterine cancer. However, studies on this matter have also found mixed results, making it tough
to know just how it affects women.
Another area of concern involves talc and lung cancer. The American Cancer Society reports that some studies regarding talc miners and millers have pointed to an elevated risk of lung cancer and other respiratory issues among this group, but others haven’t. Miners are exposed to many risk factors underground (like radon), so it’s hard to tell which factors pose the greatest risk.
Right now, it’s said that talc products are possibly carcinogenic, but the jury is still out, and research from major agencies has yet to be conducted. In fact, the American Cancer Society says that the U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP) hasn’t even fully reviewed both types of talc at this time to determine whether they are carcinogenic.
Talc inhalation has been said to cause respiratory problems. "This substance may have effects on the lungs, resulting in talc pneumoconiosis," the International Chemical Safety Card for talc reads, as reported by CNN. The network says that talc aspiration has led some pediatricians to tell parents to steer clear of using these products on babies. These warnings are said to date back to the 1960s due to the risk of aspiration.
If you’re concerned about the possible risks associated with talcum powder, there is a way to make a change to avoid talc in general. The American Cancer Society says that you can switch from talcum powder to cornstarch-based products. No concerns have been raised about cornstarch.