Research grants for studies aimed at aiding regulatory decisions and advancing the study of women’s health were awarded by the FDA Office of Women’s Health (OWH).
Since 1996, The Office of Women’s Health has funded nine (9) research projects that address medical issues which affect women. The project of the 2016 grant recipient, Nakissa Sadrieh, PhD is entitled “Non-clinical mechanistic studies in addressing ovarian cancer risk from talc use in cosmetics.”
While many animal and epidemiological studies from as early as the 1970’s have already reported a connection between talcum powder use and ovarian cancer, scientists believe that further research may aid in uncovering the powder’s overall effect on female genital system.
Talc is used in a variety of industrial and medical apparatuses. The substance is also used in many cosmetic products, including Johnson & Johnson’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower products.
Studies assert that talc mineral fibers are exceedingly difficult for the body to break down, and that when talcum powder, such as Baby Powder, is applied to the genitals the talc particles can migrate into the ovaries and become embedded in the tissue—causing inflammation that can lead to cancerous tumors. Thousands of lawsuits claim that the use of talcum powder products regularly over extended periods of time has led to the development of ovarian cancer.
Sadrieh’s project will focus specifically on long term exposure to talc and the carcinogenic effects, specifically “the molecular and genetic events associated with early ovarian oncogenesis.” This study will not only provide further validation for previous talc studies, but could also provide experimental models to further the studies of ovarian carcinogenisis.
To read the full FDA report, click here.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and previously used Talcum Powder contact the skilled product liability attorneys at The Law Offices of Peter Angelos for a no cost consultation.