Some studies suggested that occupational talc exposure could raise the risk of cancers like lung cancer or mesothelioma, especially when talc is mixed with asbestos, a dangerous substance known to cause cancer. But the evidence was mixed and unclear.

To understand things better, researchers reviewed many studies that looked at cancer rates and deaths among workers exposed to talc that doesn’t contain asbestos.

Researchers found that occupational exposure to talc that is free from asbestos does not increase the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, or laryngeal cancer.

For this study, the researchers systematically reviewed the MEDLINE (PubMed) and SCOPUS databases up to January 2026 for relevant cohort and case-control studies. They also assessed study quality using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analyses were performed for lung cancer using a random-effects model and for laryngeal cancer using a crude model, while mesothelioma results were synthesized through a systematic review. Funnel plots and Egger’s test help assess the potential publication bias.

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The team found 13 studies on lung cancer, 8 on mesothelioma, and 7 on laryngeal cancer.

For lung cancer, they analyzed 5 studies on talc miners and millers and 3 on other workers. The combined results showed a small, non-significant increase in risk:

For miners and millers, the relative risk was found to be 1.13 (95% CI: 0.97–1.33), and for other workers, the risk was found to be 1.12 (95% CI: 0.79–1.57)

There was no evidence of publication bias (p = 0.45).

No cases of mesothelioma were reported in talc miners and millers, so no combined analysis could be done.

For laryngeal cancer, studies showed no link with talc exposure. The team found the relative risk = 0.98 (95% CI: 0.58–1.57).

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Paolo Boffetta, who led the study and other co-authors, said, “In conclusion, current epidemiological evidence does not provide support for an increased risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma, or laryngeal cancer among workers who are primarily exposed to talc that is free from asbestos contamination.”

The study concludes that it’s important to keep monitoring workers exposed to talc, better analyze the composition of talc deposits, and carry out future studies with more detailed exposure data and proper control of other risk factors.

These steps will help clarify any small potential risks and guide effective workplace health and safety measures.

Journal Reference:

Monireh Sadat Seyyedsalehi, William Anthony Powley, and Paolo Boffetta. Occupational exposure to asbestos-free talc and risk of respiratory cancers, including larynx, lung, and mesothelioma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Thoracic Oncology. DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2026.103710