Critical review of the association between perineal use of talc powder and risk of ovarian cancer.

Unlabelled: Over the past four decades, there has been increasing concern that perineal use of talc powder, a commonly used personal care product, might be associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Objectives: To critically review all available human epidemiological data on the relationship between perineal use of talc powder and ovarian cancer, with consideration of other relevant experimental evidence.

Methodology: We identified 30 human studies for qualitative assessment of evidence, including 27 that were retained for further quantitative analysis.

Results: A positive association between perineal use of talc powder and ovarian cancer was found [OR: 1.28 (95% CI: 1.20-1.37)]. A significant risk was noted in Hispanics and Whites, in women applying talc to underwear, in pre-menopausal women and in post-menopausal women receiving hormonal therapy. A negative association was noted with tubal ligation.

Conclusion: Perineal use of talc powder is a possible cause of human ovarian cancer.