The Food and Drug Administration says it has detected a possible link between breast implants and a rare form of cancer.
As reported by the The Washington Post, federal authorities say that both silicone and saline breast implants might increase the likelihood of developing a cancer of the immune system known as anaplastic large cell lymphoma, or ALCL.
Sixty cases of ALCL have been found in women with breast implants, who number between 5 and 10 million around the world. “Although very rare, the FDA believes women with breast implants may have a small increased risk of developing ALCL,” said William Maisel, the agency’s highest-ranking scientist.
The FDA said that women with implants, which are used both for cosmetic reasons and reconstructive breast cancer surgery, do not need to take any special steps to protect themselves, but they should seek medical attention immediately if they observe swelling or pain around the implant.
The announcement followed a study of the medical literature since 1997, which documented 34 cases of ALCL, and subsequent reports from regulators and manufacturers around the world. The FDA also asked doctors to report any further cases of ALCL immediately.
Silicone breast implants were linked to cancer and other maladies decades ago, which led to their temporary prohibition in 1992. However, after further studies largely discounted the connection, the implants were allowed to continue.
Breast Implants Might Raise Risk of a Rare Cancer
via fairwarning.org
