In response to the concerns over the link between talcum-based products and ovarian cancer, Andrus Wagstaff PC is investigating potential lawsuits for victims.

Talc, the key ingredient in baby powder, is a naturally occurring mineral that is found throughout the world. Talc is a soft mineral comprised of magnesium, silicon and oxygen. The substance is mined, crushed, dried, and milled for use in consumer products. Talc is used for a variety of household and industrial purposes ranging a food additive, an anti-caking agent, a lubricant, and an astringent. In the case of baby powder, talc is known for its ability to absorb moisture, reduce friction and prevent rashes. Talc-based products have been marketed to women for genital hygiene purposes as body powder and genital deodorant sprays. Talc particles may also enter the female reproductive system through feminine hygiene products or diaphragms that are dusted with baby powder.

Talc particles that reach the ovaries can result in the growth of ovarian cancer cells. Experts estimate that roughly one in five American women applies talcum powder to her genitals on a regular basis. Some ovarian cancer research has noted a possible link between use of talc in the genital area and ovarian cancer. If you use talcum powder after a bath or shower, could you be putting yourself at risk for ovarian cancer?

Latest findings suggest that women who use talcum powder are 40% more likely to get ovarian cancer. Experts from Harvard Medical School in Boston studied more than 3,000 women and found using talc merely once a week raised the risk of ovarian cancer by 36%, rising to 41% for those applying powder daily.

Another common household hazard posed by talc is inhalation of baby powder by infants. Statistics have shown that there are several thousand infants each year that have died or become seriously ill following accidental inhalation of baby powder. Talc is used on babies because it absorbs unpleasant moisture. Dusting infants with talcum powder may endanger its lungs at the prospect of inhalation. Exposing children to this may be unnecessary and dangerous.

In spite of the dangers associated with talcum powder there are numerous brands in the market and some of these brands are meant for babies.