FDA Warns of Various Types of Cancer Associated with Breast Implants

This month, the Food and Drug Administration, an agency of the United States Government, released a safety report on breast implants, as there are new findings about their relationship with the development of certain types of cancer that had not been previously reported. Specifically, they found evidence that these elements are related to squamous cell carcinoma and various lymphomas in the scar tissue around the implants. The cases collected by the agency were presented "for both textured and smooth breast implants, and for saline and silicone breast implants," the report highlights.

Although the agency recognizes that these are rare cancers, it points out the importance of people making informed decisions and knowing the risks. Breast implants are usually used for aesthetic or health purposes, in the reconstruction of the tissue. In fact, the FDA has also approved them to "increase breast size, for reconstruction after surgery or trauma from breast cancer, and to correct developmental defects."

Likewise, the FDA points out other risks such as the need for additional surgeries; the development of anaplastic large cell lymphoma associated with breast implants (ALCL-AIM), which affects the immune system; breast implant illness (BII); discomfort, pain, ruptures and contractures in the tissue. In addition, there is always the risk of infection after surgery, of deflation for those filled with saline or rupture for those filled with gel.

On the other hand, the Breast Cancer organization has also made special reports on the risks of breast implants. According to the organization, "more than 60% of women decide to undergo some type of reconstruction after mastectomy, and the majority say they are satisfied with the results."

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However, there has also been an increase in its popularity around the world despite strong debates related to its safety. Breast Cancer Org notes that breast implant illness (BII) is "a set of symptoms such as fatigue, memory loss, and joint pain that can occur after breast implants are placed and usually improve once they are removed (explantation)". On the other hand, it also indicates that breast implants that have a textured silicone outer shell are a greater risk factor for the development of AIM-ALCL.

If you have breast implants, do not ignore the warning signs

Those who already have breast implants should not do anything extraordinary about them. Also, it is not always advisable to remove them. However, it is important that those who have implants be alert to any changes and maintain frequent check-ups with their respective doctors. Warning symptoms are swelling, discoloration, lumps, changes in skin texture, or pain.

Likewise, it is crucial to keep in mind that many changes do not appear until after several years, so it is essential to never let your guard down. Additionally, before making the decision to get implants, it is important to take into account the risks, as well as go to certified clinics that meet all the requirements demanded by medical regulations. On the other hand, it is necessary to know in depth what type of implant is going to be used, who the manufacturers are and if it complies with the health guarantees.