Mothers Beware: Medicated Powders Link to Respiratory Disease, Cancer

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Scientists have drawn the attention of mothers and all women to the challenges inherent in the use of medicated powders containing ‘talc’, which is capable of causing respiratory problems in children, and ovarian cancer in women. The American Academy of Paediatrics joined in the campaign, stating that baby powder can cause breathing trouble and serious lung damage if a baby inhales the particles. And the particles are small enough that it’s hard to keep them out of the air during use.

This is especially true of talc-based powders, with their small, easily inhaled particles. But other powders, including cornstarch-based powders, can also be inhaled.

According to a report from Baby Center, it stated that even small amounts of powder can irritate a baby’s lungs – especially if she’s at high risk for respiratory illness. (Those at high risk include premature babies, babies with congenital heart disease, and babies who have had RSV or frequent respiratory illnesses.)

It however added that powder can be used sparingly on babies without high risk of lungs disease, but must be carefully applied without direct contact first on the infant.

Whereas information from Prairielandherbs shows that talc is closely related to the potent carcinogen asbestos, and talc particles have been shown to cause tumors in the ovaries and lungs of cancer victims. For the last 30 years, scientists have closely scrutinized talc particles and found dangerous similarities to asbestos.

“Talc is used on babies because it absorbs unpleasant moisture. Clearly, dusting with talcum powder endangers an infant’s lungs at the prospect of inhalation. Exposing children to this carcinogen is unnecessary and dangerous”.