Does Talc Cause Lung Cancer in Humans?
No increased risk of human lung cancer has been reported in association with the use of cosmetic talcum powder. Although some studies of talc miners and millers have suggested an increased risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases, others found no increase in lung cancer risk. And the industrial grade talc to which such workers are exposed contains varying amounts of silica and asbestos, unlike the purified talc sold to consumers. One study of pottery workers exposed to silica dust and nonasbestiform talc showed an excess risk of lung cancer, while other studies of occupational talc exposure have not found an increased risk. While experimental evidence suggests that some forms of silica may cause cancer in animals, observational studies in humans are not conclusive.
