The Mirena intrauterine device (IUD), first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000, has become a popular form of birth control for women throughout the country. The IUD is intended to remain in place in a woman’s uterus for up to five years, but this convenience may come at a cost. According to a recent study, researchers have found that women fitted with the implant may be more likely to develop breast cancer. This Mirena breast cancer risk is just one more on a growing list of potential side-effects.
Is There a Mirena Breast Cancer Risk?
According to the study that claims to have uncovered a Mirena breast cancer risk, researchers from Finland analyzed data from over 93,000 women between 30 and 49 years of age who used levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs. The study, published in the Obstetrics & Gynecology medical journal, included data from 1994 to 2007, and each of the participants specifically chose IUDs to treat a condition called menorrhagia, or prolonged and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Researchers found 2,781 diagnoses of breast cancer among the study’s participants. After taking into consideration statistics regarding breast cancer among the general population, scientists initially anticipated that there would be approximately 1,292 breast cancer diagnoses. However, the results from the study found 1,542 reported cases, suggesting a 20 percent increased Mirena breast cancer risk.
While some of the study’s participants were diagnosed with other forms of cancer, researchers concluded that using IUDs such as Mirena for the treatment of menorrhagia could also lower a patient’s risk of other types of cancers, including lung, pancreatic, ovarian, and endometrial. Despite this, the Mirena breast cancer risk is still troubling for many consumers, patient advocates, and healthcare providers.
The Mirena IUD is a T-shaped, plastic device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. It is designed to release levonorgestrel to reduce the possibility that sperm will reach and fertilize an egg. It is also meant to thin the uterine lining to prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Researchers acknowledged that additional studies may be needed to take into consideration other potential risk factors for cancer, including lifestyle choices and genetics.
Bayer Healthcare Faces Lawsuits
In addition to the possibility of a Mirena breast cancer risk, Bayer Healthcare has reportedly come under fire for other serious health concerns associated with Mirena. According to women who are pursuing claims against the manufacturer for compensation, the Mirena IUD caused several severe and life-threatening complications such as:
– Pelvic inflammatory disease
– Perforations or tears of the uterine wall
– Intestinal obstruction or perforations
– Lesions or abscesses that can lead to infertility
– Erosion of the adjacent areas, including the vagina
– Inflammation of the membrane that lines the internal organs and abdominal cavity
– Embedment of the IUD in the uterus
More than 700 Mirena IUD lawsuits are pending in Bergen County Superior Court in New Jersey and 428 additional lawsuits in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. According to plaintiffs, the IUD can migrate from its initial location and perforate the uterus, among other complications. As a result, women have allegedly suffered from organ damage, vaginal scarring, and ectopic pregnancy. Bayer Healthcare is accused allegedly failed to warn consumers and doctors of these potential risks.
Contact Attorney Group Today
If you or someone you love has suffered from complications as a result of Mirena or if you have concerns about the Mirena breast cancer risk, please contact Attorney Group for more information about your legal options. We are currently providing free case evaluations for women who believe that the IUD caused them harm, and we can help you to determine whether you are eligible to recover damages for your injuries. We can also connect you with an affiliated attorney who can assist you throughout the legal process. Call today.
