Read the FDA report on breast implants and ALCL here.
Dear Susan,
Many women being treated for breast cancer consider breast implants after a mastectomy. Yesterday, the FDA issued a communication about a possible association between breast implants and a rare type of lymphoma, anaplastic large cell lymphoma (or ALCL).
Based on studies performed between January 1997-May 2010, the FDA identified women with breast implants have a very small but increased risk of developing ALCL in the scar capsule adjacent to the implant. The FDA website currently has clear information for women with implants. They recommend women with implants, but no symptoms, schedule routine follow-up appointments with their medical providers. Women who do not currently have breast implants but who are considering them should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor.
BCA has long advocated that the FDA stop approving products for the marketplace before we fully understand their potential impact on human health. In this case, the studies that identified that women with breast implants have a small but increased risk of ALCL were conducted in post-approval monitoring – that is, after approved implants were surgically placed in women's breasts. BCA will continue to urge the FDA to put patients first and before corporate profits. We demand that health risks be fully explored before medical devices are approved, not after, when women’s lives are put at risk.
Sincerely,
Kimberly Irish, J.D.
BCA Program Manager
Breast Cancer Action | 55 New Montgomery St. #323 | San Francisco, CA 94105
Toll-free at 877-2STOPBC (278-6722) | www.bcaction.org | www.thinkbeforeyoupink.org
The information in this blog came through www.bcaction.org and are not necessarily my views, information, or opinion. I have included it due to the fact it hit the news last night and felt you might like the site or more information.