New information phone line for women concerned about their breast implants
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7 January, 2012
The Gillard Government today announced a new hotline for women concerned about their breast implants.
The new service has been set up following concerns from France over PIP breast implants. While there is no evidence of increased rupture rates here in Australia, support is available for women who want more information.
Women who have had breast implants and are concerned should ring the Breast Implant Information Line on Ph: 1800 217 257 or contact their surgeon directly for clinical advice.
For women who require further follow up, clinical and radiological investigations will be covered under the usual Medicare arrangements.
“Australian women can be reassured that our experts advise that on the basis of current data available there is no evidence of increased rupture rates for PIP implants in Australia,” Acting Minister for Health and Ageing Nicola Roxon said.
“The Breast Implant Information Line will operate 24 hours a day from today, to provide advice and support. This government service will also register women’s contact details so follow up information can be provided if necessary.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Health Catherine King said the TGA had only received 37 reports of ruptured PIP implants since 2000, representing 0.4% of PIP implants and was well within the international evidence of implant rupture rates.
“These figures remain within the expected risk of rupture but given concerns in Europe regarding this product, we recommend that women see their surgeons if they are concerned or require further advice.”
“Obviously the TGA will continue to keep a close watch on this situation and further information will be provided if more information becomes available.”
The TGA is contacting all Australian surgeons who have used the PIP implants to ask that they provide a clinical evaluation to their patients.
For all media enquiries please contact the Minister’s Office on 0409 945 476
The 24 hours Breast Implant Information Line, Ph: 1800 217 257
For full TGA advice please visit http://www.tga.gov.au/safety/alerts-device-breast-implants-120104.htm
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