Document 15oOYdyjYQR62oRXenVmR6MZd

FILE NAME: Talc (TALC) DATE: 1972 May 10 DOC#: TALC067 DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION: Letter to the Center for Science in the Public Interest from Barry Castleman VI Phone Number 301-494-3775 Hey 10, 1972 Dr. Albert Fritsch Center for Selene in the Public 1346 Connecticut Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. Interest Dear Hr. Fritsch: I was referred to you by Ken Lasson. I am Interested in research on the adverse effects on health of asbestos and tale, in particular carcinogenisis. Ken said that your center performs action-oriented investigations and you might be working on these topics now. As far as I know, no one has yet demonstrated, that non-occupational, environmental exposures to talc carry an excess risk of developing cancer. (Ibis has been done for asbestos, and the government has begun to effect restrictions on its use.) However, the striking chemical similarity between talc and asbestos, the occurrence of greater than trace amounts of tresaolite asbestos in talcum powders, and the knowledge that occupational exposure to talc carries an excess risk of lung cancer are very disturbing, in view of the widespread use of talc in infant an cosmetic powders, perfused vaginal sprays, etc. My correspondence with IDA indicates that they arc doing a minimal job (analysing talcs for asbestos) about regulating both aabeetoe and tele in consumer goods. I would like to know of ways to get them "interested. In my spare hours her, 7 have reviewed some of the literature on cervical cancer epidemiology. I also understand that soma, but not all, prophylactics are dusted with talc in processing and packaging. Dr. Abraham Iitll.snfftld at the Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene has an interest in talc also, and I hope to work out some kind of study with him soon. Please let me know your interest and activities In the subjects of asbestos and talc. I would be glad to come down and see you if you think it worthwhile. Hy best wishes lr your work. Sincerely, BC:dh Barry Castleman Technical Services Section Division of Air Pollution end Industrial Hygiene Bureau of Environmental Services