Talcum powders simply put are powders made from talc, a mineral made up mainly of the elements magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. These powders absorbs moisture well and helps cut down on friction, making them useful for keeping skin dry and helping to prevent rashes. talc is widely used in cosmetic products such as baby powder and adult body and facial powders, as well as in a number of other consumer products. Having said that it is of importance to note that talc in its natural form contains asbestos, a substance known to cause cancers in and around the lungs when inhaled.

In August 2017, a Los Angeles jury ordered Johnson & Johnson to pay $417 million to an ovarian cancer patient who sued the company over talc in their iconic baby powder, a product she says she has used on a daily basis for over 50 years leading up to her diagnosis.
http://9jabrainz.com/2018/01/health-tips-8-insane-things-need-know-talcum-powders-effects-babies/