WHO's Cancer Agency Says Talc Powder 'Probably Carcinogenic' for Humans
The World Health Organization's cancer research arm, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), has recently classified talc powder as "probably carcinogenic" to humans. This classification has sparked widespread discussion and concern, but experts caution against jumping to definitive conclusions based on this announcement. The IARC's decision stems from a combination of "limited evidence" suggesting that talc could cause ovarian cancer in humans, "sufficient evidence" linking it to cancer in rats, and "strong mechanistic evidence" indicating carcinogenic effects in human cells. This marks a significant step in the ongoing debate over the safety of talc, a mineral widely used in baby powders and cosmetics. Talc is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined in various parts of the world. Most people encounter talc through products like baby powder and cosmetics. However, the most significant exposure happens during the mi...
