World Health Organization Report: Talc in Johnson’s Baby Powder ‘Probably Carcinogenic’

Even without being contaminated by asbestos, the World Health Organization (WHO) has now determined that exposure to talc, once widely used in consumer products like Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder, likely increases the risk of cancer, particularly ovarian cancer. This assessment comes after years of growing concerns about the potential link between talcum powder and cancer, which has led to tens of thousands of women pursuing legal action against manufacturers like Johnson & Johnson for failing to warn about these risks.

The WHO’s Landmark Determination

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a division of the WHO, previously classified talc that contains asbestos as “carcinogenic to humans.” But their latest evaluation has gone a step further, determining that even talc that is asbestos-free should be considered a “probable carcinogen.” This classification, known as Group 2A, is the second-highest level of certainty that a substance can cause cancer in humans.

The IARC’s assessment was based on a thorough review of both human and animal studies, as well as an examination of the biological mechanisms by which talc may interact with the body to promote cancer development. Researchers reported their findings in The Lancet Oncology, indicating “strong mechanistic evidence” that talc exhibits key characteristics of carcinogens, meaning it has the potential to initiate or accelerate the cancerous transformation of cells.

Ovarian Cancer Risks from Genital Talc Use

Much of the focus on the potential cancer risks of talcum powder has centered on its use in the genital area. Several studies have found a link between regular perineal (genital) application of talc-based powders and an increased risk of ovarian cancer in women.

One recent talcum powder cancer study published in May 2024 concluded that genital talcum powder use increased the risk of ovarian cancer by 17%. Other research has suggested the risk may be even higher, with another study published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research reporting a 20-30% increased ovarian cancer risk among women who used talcum powder on their groin area.

The IARC’s evaluation specifically cited “numerous studies that consistently showed an increase in the incidence of ovarian cancer in humans self-reporting the use of body powder in the perineal region.” While the exact biological mechanisms are still being investigated, the leading hypothesis is that talc particles can migrate through the reproductive tract and reach the ovaries, where they may initiate or promote cancerous changes.

Mesothelioma and Other Potential Health Risks

In addition to the ovarian cancer concerns, some studies have also examined the potential link between talcum powder exposure and mesothelioma cancer. The evidence here is more mixed, with some research suggesting an increased risk among talc miners and workers, while other studies have found no such association.

Importantly, the studies involving talc miners have often involved exposure to talc that was contaminated with asbestos, which is an established carcinogen. The IARC has stated that the cancer risk appears to be higher for those with occupational exposures, such as mining and processing talc, compared to consumers using talcum powder products.

Beyond cancer, talcum powder has also been investigated for potential links to other health problems, such as respiratory diseases. However, the evidence on these other potential risks remains limited and inconclusive at this time.

Ongoing Talcum Powder Cancer Lawsuits

The IARC’s latest classification of talcum powder as a “probable carcinogen” is likely to have significant implications for the growing number of lawsuits against companies like Johnson & Johnson. Tens of thousands of women have already filed claims alleging that their use of talcum powder, particularly in the genital area, led to their development of ovarian cancer.

Many of these lawsuits have argued that Johnson & Johnson failed to adequately warn consumers about the potential cancer risks associated with talcum powder. The company has maintained that its talc-based products do not cause ovarian cancer. Still, Johnson & Johnson has faced multiple jury verdicts ordering the company to pay millions in compensation to affected women and their families.