Does talc cause cancer?

Talc that has asbestos is generally accepted as being able to cause cancer if it is inhaled. This type of talc is not used in modern consumer products. The evidence about asbestos-free talc, which is still widely used, is less clear. read more

"Cancer is caused by genetic mutations," she told the jury. "We don't know what causes those gene mutations in ovarian cancer, but we specifically know from studies that talc does not cause mutations in genes," she said, reiterating, "talc does not cause gene mutations. read more

Maybe — but there’s not very much evidence to show that. According to the American Cancer Society, some talc in its natural form contains asbestos, which is known to cause cancers in and around the lungs when inhaled. read more

The modest association between ovarian cancer and talc exposure found in some studies has been attributed to asbestos contamination, Whysner says. Cornstarch, in comparison, is a food substance found in the corn kernel. Because of cornstarch's chemical nature, it is biologically implausible for it to cause cancer, he adds. read more