BAPRAS responds to research report published on British Medical Journal website

The recent Canadian scientific review of breast cancer incidence in patients with breast implants suggests that the presence of these devices might make detection of smaller cancers on screening less obvious. It is suggested that this is due to the ‘radio-opaque' (densely shadowed) effect of the implant inside the breast which can mask any smaller changes in breast tissue that can indicate the presence of cancerous tissue. This masking effect of a foreign body inside the breast has been known about for a long time, and the best screening techniques will always take account of such concerns and detect cancers in the vast majority of early cases. However, the findings of this study (which puts together the accumulated findings of a group of related studies - a so-called ‘meta-analysis') are important, and need to be followed up by others with expertise in screening and breast cancer.

BAPRAS would like to reassure women who read the press reports today that the study does not indicate that breast implants themselves cause an increase in cancer within the breast tissue. Research from the same group last year reported a lower risk of breast cancer in women with breast implants compared to the rest of the general population which highlights the lack of clear and complete data.

However, the recommendation by the Department of Health's recent Review of Regulation on Cosmetic Interventions for a breast implant register is a positive step forward in addressing this data gap.  BAPRAS has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on an international consensus for an agreed minimum dataset for breast implant and device registries with other international societies of plastic surgeons. Known as ICOBRA - International Collaboration of Breast Registry Activities - this will build on best practice which is currently operating in Australia."

This forms part of our continuing objective to maintain the highest standards of practice in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery for the people of the United Kingdom and beyond.

Tim Goodacre
Chair, BAPRAS Professional Standards Committee