Implants face ban over cancer fears

AN Australian ban on a range of textured breast implants has been recommended after a review of apparent links to rare forms of cancer.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration’s proposed regulatory action — which could include cancelling, suspending or recalling implants — follows an extensive review of an apparent association between anaplastic large cell lymphoma and some implants.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said the Government supported the proposed action.

France and Canada acted in April to remove certain textured implants from market.

As of April, the TGA had received 76 reports of anaplastic large cell lymphoma associated with breast implants in Australian women.

The estimated risk of breast implant associated lymphoma is between one-in-1000 and one-in-10,000.

Experts do not recommend removal of breast implants where there are no problems with the implant.

Breast implant associated lymphoma is usually cured if detected early. The TGA has published information on the proposed action on its website.

Allergan Australia said it was reviewing the action in relation to its Natrelle Biocell products. “Allergan continues to stand behind the benefit/risk profile of its breast implants,” the company said.

It said there was no recommendation from any health authority for asymptomatic patients to have textured breast implants removed or replaced as a preventive measure.