December 19, 2018
Allergan can no longer sell its Microcell and Biocell textured breast implants in Europe and subsequently, Allergan suspends sales and withdraws supply of textured breast implants in European markets.
France’s national health regulator refused to renew approval for two types of Allergan textured breast implants, Microcell and Biocell, halting Allergan from selling its textured breast implants in Europe.
The French agency advises patients with the implants to be proactive and undergo regular check-ups with their family doctors due to a blood cancer called BIA-ALCL, Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, which occurs more often in patients that have textured breast implants. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that originates from lymphatic cells, which are part of your immune system (the system which fights infections). It is not a cancer of the breast tissue (i.e., breast cancer). It has been found in the scar tissue surrounding breast implants in some women. More than 600 cases worldwide have been identified. ALCL can be treatable if caught early enough.
Other health administrative authorities around the world continue to permit the sale of such implants despite knowing since 2011 about the increased risk.
In November 2019, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) reported on the lack of transparency and rigour in governments to review medical devices. U.S. figures alone revealed an average of 8,000 deaths a year linked to medical devices highlighting breast implants. Medical devices around the world are a multi-billion dollar a year industry.
If you are concerned about your own implant the ICIJ has built a database noting more than 70,000 recalls, safety alerts, and other device-related medical notices.
All posts are intended strictly for educational purposes. It is not intended to make any representations or warranties about the outcome of any procedure. It is not a substitute for a thorough in-person consultation with a medical professional. If you have questions about your personal medical situation, please call your healthcare provider.
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