Link between breast implants and cancer risk: Symptoms, actions, and necessary measures
Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare type of T-cell lymphoma that primarily affects women with breast implants, particularly those with textured surface implants. As of recent FDA updates, there have been approximately 1,380 reported cases and 64 deaths linked to BIA-ALCL worldwide.
How common is BIA-ALCL?
The overall risk of developing BIA-ALCL remains low. In large cohorts of women with textured implants, only a small fraction have been diagnosed with the condition (for example, 11 cases out of over 3,500 women in one study). However, as reporting improves, the incidence of BIA-ALCL is increasing, though epidemiological data are still limited due to variable follow-up durations and small numbers.
Main associated risk factors
- Textured breast implants: The vast majority of BIA-ALCL cases are linked to textured implants rather than smooth ones. This has led to recalls of textured implants in Europe and the US in 2019.
- Genetic predisposition: Women carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations have been found to have a dramatically increased risk—about 16 times higher—of developing BIA-ALCL when they have textured implants. This genetic risk factor is significant in breast cancer survivors receiving implant reconstruction post-mastectomy.
- Other factors under investigation include chronic inflammation and late seroma formation around implants, though these may be more clinical manifestations rather than independent risk factors.
Symptoms and prevention
People with breast implants should be aware that symptoms may develop after implant surgery. If any unusual symptoms, such as pain, swelling, lumps, or skin changes, occur, they should report them to a doctor as soon as possible. Symptoms of BIA-ALCL may include a lump or swelling near the breast implant, breast pain, uneven breasts, and collection of fluid in the breast.
Individuals with implants should check their breasts for any unusual signs or symptoms once a month, just like those without implants. This can be done by looking in the mirror, feeling all breast tissue, and checking in different positions. The American Cancer Society recommends that people with breast implants follow the same breast cancer screening guidelines as those without implants.
Stay informed and discuss with your healthcare provider
While BIA-ALCL is rare overall, the presence of textured implants and genetic mutations like BRCA1/2 significantly increase the risk. Women with these risk factors are advised to discuss implant choices and surveillance strategies thoroughly with their healthcare providers. It is also essential to keep a record of your implant's manufacturer and model name for future reference.
[1] FDA updates on breast implants and breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/products-and-medical-procedures/breast-implants/fda-updates-breast-implants-and-breast-implant-associated-anaplastic-large-cell [2] Allergan recalls textured breast implants and tissue expanders: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/allergan-recalls-textured-breast-implants-tissue-expanders [3] Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): https://www.cancer.org/cancer/anaplastic-large-cell-lymphoma/causes-risks-prevention/breast-implant-associated-anaplastic-large-cell-lymphoma.html [4] Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6352486/ [5] Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): https://www.cancer.gov/types/lymphoma/patient/bia-alcl-treatment-pdq
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