Mesothelioma and Cosmetic Talc: What You Need to Know

Mesothelioma and Cosmetic Talc: What You Need to Know

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare cancer. It is caused from asbestos exposure, a material once widely used in construction. Recently, it has been discovered that cosmetic talc, commonly found in personal hygiene products, may also contain asbestos, leading to mesothelioma in some cases. Understanding Mesothelioma Mesothelioma primarily affects the lining of the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and other organs. Exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma, with even low levels of exposure posing a risk. Symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and weight loss. Diagnosis involves imaging tests and biopsies. Talc and Asbestos Contamination Talc is a mineral used in cosmetic powders and other products. Cosmetic talc may contain trace amounts of asbestos, which can be…

Talcum Powder Can Cause Mesothelioma New Study Shows
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Talcum Powder Can Cause Mesothelioma New Study Shows

A prestigious medical journal has published the strongest evidence yet that asbestos-tainted talcum powder can cause mesothelioma.  The new article appears in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. It involved 33 mesothelioma patients. In every case, each patient’s only known exposure to asbestos was through talcum powder.  In six cases, researchers went a step further to find asbestos fibers in the tissue samples.  “Asbestos of the type found in talcum powder was found in all six cases evaluated,” reports lead researcher Jacqueline Moline, MD. Dr. Moline is a professor and researcher at Hofstra University School of Medicine in New York.  Since there was no other way for these patients to have come in contact with asbestos, Moline and her…