A woman who suffered from a rare type of cancer linked to her breast implants has issued a warning to others who may have similar implants. Susan Axelby, 68, received £57,000 from Allergan Limited after she contracted breast-implant associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Although Susan’s case is very rare, regulatory bodies in the UK have reported at least 106 incidents of BIA-ALCL originating from breast implant surgery, including those from six different manufacturers.
Susan had the implants fitted after having her breasts removed to prevent an inherited cancer risk. A few years later, she noticed swelling in one of her new breasts, which was subsequently withdrawn. Her surgeon later found that she had BIA-ALCL, which is a type of cancer that affects the immune system and develops in the scar tissue surrounding breast implants. Unfortunately, the implant had to be removed, with the added disappointment for Susan that she cannot have another one.
Scientists have said that BIA-ALCL may result from the surface texture of the implant or a bacterial infection. As of December 2023, the UK-based Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) estimated that the incidence of BIA-ALCL, based on confirmed cases requiring surgery in the UK, stands at one in 14,200 implants sold. Many others in the UK who have had similar experiences are considering legal action and seeking compensation from implant manufacturers.
At the time of writing, Allergan had issued a global recall of Biocell textured breast implants and tissue expanders, and the company no longer manufactures these types of implants. Nevertheless, the MHRA has asked that women with breast implants should see a doctor if they have unusual symptoms, such as swelling around the breast implant, though there is no need to remove or check the implants if no symptoms are present.
Susan’s warning to those with similar implants is significant, particularly for young girls who might be considering such surgery. She said she doesn’t want this to happen to others, and the warning is also timely given that World Cancer Day takes place on 4 February 2024
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