
In its natural form, some talc may contain asbestos, a substance notoriously characterized as a cause of cancers in and around the lungs. Although home-use talcum products in the United States have been asbestos-free since the 1970s, there still may be a link between talcum powder and ovarian cancer amongst women who apply talcum powder regularly in the genital area.
Talc, a mineral made up primarily of the elements magnesium, silicon, and oxygen, has been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer in women. Talc may be found in various powders, cosmetics, condoms, and other consumer products. A recent Harvard study reported a 41% increased risk of ovarian cancer in women who use Talcum powder.