The Facts About DES
The National Cancer Institute, which estimates that between 4 million to 6 million women were given DES, has issued the following information and recommendations regarding the drug:
* Women who were pregnant between 1940 and 1971 and had problems or a history of problems during pregnancy may have been given DES or a similar drug.
* Researchers have linked DES exposure before birth to an increased risk of developing a rare form of cancer of the vagina or cervix called clear cell adenocarcinoma. Although the cancer usually occurs around the ages of 19 or 20, “the upper age limit, if any, for DES-exposed daughters to develop this type of cancer is not known,” according to a spokesman from the cancer institute.
* DES-exposed daughters may also have an increased risk of developing another kind of cervical cancer usually found in older women. In addition, researchers have also found a link between DES exposure before birth and an increased risk of developing abnormal cells in the tissue of the cervix and vagina. The condition is not cancerous, but if it is left untreated, it may develop into cancer.
* Women exposed to the drug before birth may also have structural changes in the vagina, uterus or cervix that could increase their risk of miscarriage and premature delivery during pregnancy.
* DES-exposed daughters are at an increased risk for having tubal (ectopic) pregnancies.
* Men exposed to DES before birth may have testicular abnormalities.
* Women who took DES when they were pregnant may have a slightly increased risk of developing breast cancer, some studies indicate.
* People who think they or their mother may have taken the drug are urged to contact the physician or hospital where the birth occurred and inquire whether there are records indicating that they or their mother were given DES. If the doctor has retired or died, the records may have been turned over to another doctor. The county medical society or health department may be able to tell you where the records are. Some pharmacies also keep records of prescriptions for a long time and may be able to provide the information.
* Women who believe they may have been exposed to DES before birth should inform their doctor and learn the possible health effects of the drug. They should have thorough examinations that include “four-quadrant” Pap smears, breast, pelvic and rectal examinations.
For more information, contact:
* The Office of Cancer Communications, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Md. 20892.
* DES Action, a consumer group organized by individuals exposed to DES. The West Coast office of DES Action is at 1615 Broadway, Oakland, Calif. 94612. (415) 465-4011. The East Coast office is at the Long Island Jewish Hillside Medical Center, New Hyde Park, N.Y. 11040. (516) 775-3450.
* DES Cancer Network, a consumer group that provides information and support. P.O. Box 10185, Rochester, N.Y. 14610.
* Southern California chapter of DES Action, which is meeting Feb. 23 to organize. Contact Bill Kenny at (213) 934-7671.
