In the 1990s, studies uncovered a link between silicone breast implants and systemic illness. A connection was made linking human leukocyte antigen, the genetic component to our individual immune systems, to an increased risk of reaction. Dangerously high levels of platinum circulated in these women with a clear entry point – the silicone shell. The removal of the device and the scar capsules surrounding them alone lead to improvement and recovery.

The medical community and government health authorities discounted this scientific evidence presented before them; which could have prevented a public health tragedy from continuing as further generations of women became ill.

Even after these studies were published, women continued to suffer from neurological damage, autoimmune diseases, hair loss, chronic fatigue, infertility, as well as heart and lung conditions as a result of silicone based medical devices. They were misdiagnosed, disbelieved, and not given the medical intervention desperately needed to improve their health. 

In the 1920s, cigarette ads were commonly seen endorsed by doctors; today tobacco smoke is proven to cause lung cancer. In the same manner, the implant industry is equally flawed in reporting adverse effects. The sad part; implementing sensitivity testing against native device material, identifying if a woman carries a genetic predisposition to silicone intolerance and ensuring higher quality standards could eliminate the majority of these cases.

There are many reasons why women opt for breast implants and for most; other options are not available. Breast cancer, breast development dissatisfaction, drastic anatomical changes, and genetic abnormalities are just a few of the many reasons why women are faced with making the decision to have breast surgery. Reasons that do not discriminate and can happen to any woman in her lifetime.

The right to life, the right to transparent informed consent, and the right to justice have been denied in regards to breast implants and women's health. Silicone encased implants filled with silicone or saline are associated with the development of autoimmune diseases and a rare form of cancer known as breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma or BIA-ALCL.

With advancements in breast reconstruction and enhancement using a woman's own fat and stem cells, options do exist for women who are at risk. There are methods to help reverse the associated illnesses and complications for women who have developed symptoms before their health declines to the point of permanent disability, organ damage, and in some cases – death. 

Please help support transparency and ask health departments and international organizations to oversee this health travesty before more lives are taken.

Your support is greatly appreciated,

Members of IAC