Talc: Health risks associated with inhalation and exposure to the female genital area

Health Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada have conducted a joint screening assessment of talc under the Chemicals Management Plan. The final screening assessment, based on the latest scientific evidence, concludes that certain uses of talc may be harmful to human health. Specifically, talc may be harmful to lungs when inhaling certain loose talc powder products, and it is associated with ovarian cancer when using certain self-care products containing talc in the female genital area.

Canadians concerned about their exposure to talc can check the ingredient list on product labels and avoid using loose talc powders that may be inhaled and certain self-care products containing talc in the female genital area. Canadians concerned about current or previous use of products containing talc should also consult their healthcare professional.