Toxic hip replacements increase cancer risk

The health risk of metal on metal hip replacements rises as research signals the devices increase cancer risk. Read what is happening here.

By Lana Clements

A little over a week ago, it emerged that 40,000 people could have received "metal on metal" hip replacements that cause toxicity in the blood.

Now, fresh claims say the devices could increase the risk of cancer and genetic damage. According to the Daily Telegraph, research by the University of Bristol examining the effect of the replacements has found that cells in the bladders of over one in five patients were changed.

Out of 72 patients monitored, three patients had developed cancer, while a further 14 had genetic damage to the bladder. One patient reportedly said he is now desperate for the implant to be removed, fearing for his long-term safety.

The hip replacements came into use during the 1990s and were thought to offer better mobility than traditional implants. More than 1,000 patients are now thought to be suing, after tissue damage and inflammation in bones and muscles has left them in pain or needing corrective surgery.

Around 10,000 patients should have been checked for problems, but it is not certain if all have yet been alerted.

Of particular concern are the replacements made by the company DePuy. Those who were fitted with replacements from this company should contact their consultant or hospital - if in doubt over where replacements came from, patients should make contact for further information.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has said that the 40,000 British patients with the metal on metal hip replacements should undergo checks, but denied there was evidence that the devices increased cancer risk.