Calls for stronger warnings about the cancer risk linked to breast implants will be considered by the Government. Health minister Maria Caulfield pledged to examine suggestions for the UK to follow the United States in issuing a “black box” warning on breast implant packaging.
This includes reference to a possible link between implants and a rare type of cancer of the immune system known as breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Labour MP Fleur Anderson (Putney) had asked the minister to review both the link with cancer and the NHS guidance, advising that clearly explaining it would avoid GPs and patients making a diagnosis too late.
The exchanges came during a Commons adjournment debate on support for women affected by the PIP (Poly Implant Prostheses) breast implant scandal. PIP implants were withdrawn from the UK market in 2010 after it was found they had been filled with non-medical grade silicone intended for use in mattresses.
