Using Talcom Powder is as Dangerous As Asbestos Exposure
Talc is a soft mineral produced from rocks that is processed into a powder. Pure talc mineral is a hydrous magnesium silicate. Some trace minerals are removed in the processing but very small fibers remain which are similar to those that occur in asbestos. Over thirty years ago the dangers of talc prompted the FDA to take steps to reduce the level of the asbestos-like fibers in cosmetic talc. The concern is that talc is similar to asbestos and that the presence of talc particles is linked to tumors.
Commercial talc may contain impurities like asbestos and crystalline silica. Actually, asbestos may even be present in talc. Talc is used for a wide variety of purposes. It is often used in cosmetics and body powders.
Talc is used as a filler for paper that enhances the quality of the paper for printing and its appearance. It is used in ceramic tiles, and in paints and coatings. Even the dust on some chewing gums contains talc! Talc is also used in in flea and tick powder, deodorants, chalk, crayons, and soap.
A recent study has shown that women who use talcum powder around their genital areas are 40% more likely to develop ovarian cancer. The study included 3,000 women and the risk of ovarian cancer for those who used talcum powder once a week was found to be 36%. Those who used it every day went up to 41%.
Talc also causes poisoning due to accidental exposure. Accidental inhalation of talc (baby powder) has caused the death or serious illness of many infants.
What guidelines should be available and what regulations now exist or should be implemented to protect people? Why do so many children suffer because authorities haven’t placed reliable guidelines? Why haven’t women been protected against the use of talcum powder for all of these years?
Selfishness and seem to be the prevailing theme again and again whenever there needs to be protection and guidance about potentially harmful or toxic ingredients. It is obvious that we cannot put our good health into the hands of the government and trust them to guide us to making safe and healthy decisions about the products we use.
