FDA Announces Link between Breast Implants and Cancer | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

A recent announcement by the Food and Drug Administration warns women that breast implants can cause a rare type of cancer, anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), which is classified as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. According to the announcement made by the FDA, there have already been at least nine deaths which have been directly linked to breast implants.

breast implant cancer

Breast augmentation is the second most popular type of cosmetic surgery that women undergo, following liposuction. It is estimated that there are over 300,000 breast implant surgeries performed every year in this country. Worldwide that number is between 5 to 10 million women.

How Safe Are Breast Implants?

The dangers of breast implant have been raised multiple times over the years. One major concern is that the implants can leak and cause all kinds of dangerous medical issues. Many studies have been done that reveal a strong connection between breast implants and debilitating autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Six years ago, the FDA found that more than half of women who undergo breast implant surgery after a mastectomy and 20 percent of women who choose the surgery for cosmetic issues have to have the implants removed within 10 years of having the surgery. This was the same year the agency also began receiving reports about the possibility that the implants were causing ALCL.

According to the announcement by the FDA, as well as a report compiled by the World Health Organization (WHO) – which came to the same conclusion – it can take about 10 years after surgery for the cancer to develop. Symptoms usually begin with pain and swelling. Data shows that women who have textured implants are more prone to developing cancer than women who have smooth implants.

Dangerous Medical Devices

Our Carolinas personal injury firm has successfully represented many victims who were injured by dangerous medical devices. Our legal team has built a solid reputation of fighting for victims and getting them the financial compensation they deserve – even if it means litigating all the way to the Virginia Supreme Court.

If you have sustained an injury or illness, or have lost a loved one because they were exposed to a dangerous product, contact our Virginia dangerous medical device law firm to find out what legal options you may have against those responsible for your injuries.