Comment: | DES is short for Diethylstilbestrol, a synthetic oestrogen that was prescribed to pregnant women to prevent miscarriage and for other complications. DES can cause an increased risk of breast cancer in DES mothers (the women who took the drug), fertility problems in some DES sons and daughters, complications in pregnancy for some DES daughters, as well as an increased risk of a rare form of vaginal cancer known as clear cell adenocarcinoma (CCAC), and an increased risk of testicular cancer in DES sons and breast cancer in daughters. Neither the medical profession nor the lay person are generally aware of the consequences of exposure to DES. DES is considered to be an issue of the past and current health problems and needs of those exposed to it are generally ignored.
The aims of the DES Action groups are to help those exposed to DES to be aware of their exposure and to provide information, doctors' referrals and counselling support. The group is also involved in awareness campaigns. |
