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AFP-Relaxnews
Published on
July 8, 2024
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) cancer agency has classified talc as “probably carcinogenic” to humans. The agency also classified acrylonitrile, a compound used in polymer production, as carcinogenic.
Experts from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), meeting in Lyon, France, published their findings on Friday in the journal The Lancet Oncology.
They classified talc, a naturally occurring mineral mined worldwide, as “probably carcinogenic” to humans. This classification is based on limited evidence of cancer in humans (ovarian cancer) and sufficient evidence in laboratory animals.
Exposure to talc primarily occurs in the workplace during extraction, grinding, or processing of the mineral, or during the manufacture of products containing it.
The general population is primarily exposed through the use of cosmetics and body powders containing talc.
However, experts acknowledge potential bias in studies showing an increased cancer incidence. While the assessment focused on talc without asbestos, they state that asbestos contamination might not be ruled out in most studies involving exposed humans.
In June, American pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson reached a final settlement with 42 state courts in the United States over a talc case accusing the company of causing cancer.
A review of studies published in January 2020, including 250,000 women in the United States, found no statistical link between the use of talc on the genitals and the risk of ovarian cancer.
In the 1970s, concerns arose regarding asbestos contamination of talc, as asbestos often occurs near the minerals used to produce talc. Studies at the time indicated a higher risk of ovarian cancer among talc users.
The WHO agency has also classified acrylonitrile, a volatile organic compound primarily used in polymer production, as “carcinogenic” to humans.
The decision is based on “sufficient evidence of lung cancer” and “limited” evidence of bladder cancer in men, according to the IARC.
These polymers are used in fibers for clothing, carpets, plastics for consumer products, and automotive parts.
Acrylonitrile is also found in cigarette smoke. Air pollution is another source of exposure.
(AFP)
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Talc Classified as “Probably Carcinogenic” by WHO Cancer Agency
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the cancer agency of the World Health Organization (WHO), has classified talc as “probably carcinogenic” to humans. This classification, published in the journal *The Lancet Oncology*, is based on a combination of evidence from human studies and laboratory animal studies.
Talc and Ovarian Cancer
The IARC’s classification is primarily driven by the association of talc exposure with ovarian cancer in humans. While the evidence is considered “limited,” the agency found enough data to warrant its “probably carcinogenic” classification.
Exposure to talc mainly occurs in workplaces where it is extracted, ground, processed, or used in the manufacturing of talc-containing products. For the general public, exposure often comes from the use of cosmetics and body powders that contain talc.
It’s important to note that the IARC’s evaluation focused on talc without asbestos contamination. However, the agency acknowledges that contamination of talc with asbestos cannot be ruled out entirely in most studies involving human exposure.
Johnson & Johnson Talc Lawsuit
The IARC’s classification comes amid a lengthy legal battle involving the American pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson. In June 2024, J&J reached a final settlement with 42 state courts in the United States over allegations that talc in its products caused cancer.
Review of Studies
A review of studies published in January 2020, examining over 250,000 women in the United States, found no statistical link between genital talc use and the risk of ovarian cancer. This finding further complicates the understanding of the potential risks associated with talc exposure and its possible role in cancer development.
Historical Concerns About Asbestos Contamination
In the 1970s, concerns arose regarding the potential contamination of talc with asbestos, a known carcinogen. Research at the time suggested a higher risk of ovarian cancer among talc users. The IARC’s recent classification highlights the ongoing debate and need for further investigation to understand the full extent of the potential risks associated with talc exposure.
Acrylonitrile Classified as “Carcinogenic”
In addition to classifying talc, the IARC also classified acrylonitrile, a volatile organic compound used in the production of polymers, as “carcinogenic” to humans. This classification is based on “sufficient evidence” of lung cancer and “limited” evidence of bladder cancer in men.
Uses of Acrylonitrile
Acrylonitrile finds wide use in various industries, including:
- Production of fibers for clothing and carpets
- Manufacturing of plastics for consumer products and automotive parts
Acrylonitrile is also present in cigarette smoke and can be found in air pollution, exposing individuals to this potential carcinogen through various routes.
IARC’s Role and Significance
The IARC plays a critical role in evaluating the carcinogenic potential of various agents and substances. Its classifications are widely recognized and influence public health policies, regulatory decisions, and research priorities. The IARC’s recent classifications of talc and acrylonitrile emphasize the importance of ongoing research and efforts to protect human health from potential carcinogenic exposures.
