Are You Still Using Talcum Powder? It Could Be A Health Risk
Talcum powder is a billion dollar business, yet controversy surrounds this particular cosmetics product. Studies have shown that the overuse of this product can cause ovarian cancer. In fact, recent jury awards have totaled more than $4 billion dollars to individuals who say they developed Ovarian cancer from the use of certain talcum powders. This has many consumers questioning what is safe these days.
Annual Exams Can Screen For Anomalies
According to one Gynecologist Des Moines IA women should have an annual Pap test to look for any cell irregularities. When performed regularly, these tests will help your doctor discover any changes, and then allow many women to seek treatment and avoid progression to various cancers. While many find the test inconvenient or embarrassing, it’s really quick.
The doctor commonly scrapes a sample of cells from the outer opening of the cervix wall and sends away to a laboratory to be tested for anomalies. When the cells have been analyzed, typically the doctor’s office will call you to relay the results. If your results are abnormal there is no reason to be alarmed yet. An abnormal result indicates that there were some noticeable changes in the cell sample, but that doesn’t mean it is cancer.
Clarifying The Risks Of Talcum Powder
Many studies have concluded that talcum powder is possibly carcinogenic. A 2013 research study by Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, USA, showed that the frequent use of talc on and around the genital area increases the risk of developing ovarian cancer by 24 percent. Talcum powder is mainly composed of magnesium silicate, and in its natural form it contains a toxic substance called asbestos, which is now outlawed, and already proven to be carcinogenic. Still, there are manufacturers who use talcum powder in cosmetics and is considered by many women as an excellent product for feminine hygiene, because it keeps the intimate areas dry.
Studies show that this product could be absorbed and reach areas such as the uterus, the fallopian tubes, and the ovaries, causing inflammation in the female body and creating a perfect environment for cancer cells. While scientists have not completely dismissed this product, they do say excessive and prolonged use of the substance is potentially dangerous to our health.
Are There Signs Or Symptoms Of Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer occurs when ovary cells grow and divide uncontrollably. Ovarian tumors can be of many types, but the World Health Organization says there are two categories of tumors: the initial and the secondary ones. The most common symptoms of ovarian cancer that generally occur in the most advanced forms are abdominal swelling, the need to urinate often, and abdominal pain.
Less common symptoms are a loss of appetite, vaginal bleeding, and changes in bowel habits. Ovarian cancer can be diagnosed in different stages, from stage one to four, and a good or bad prognosis depends on the stage of the tumor at the time of diagnosis. But most importantly, doctors say if patients experience any of the mentioned symptoms it’s best to schedule an OBGYN appointment as soon as possible. Starting any treatment sooner than later will typically result in a better prognosis.
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