Victims of Cancer-Linked Pregnancy Drug to Demand Public Inquiry Into 'Silent Scandal'
Victims of a cancer-linked pregnancy drug are set to meet with Health Secretary Wes Streeting on Monday as part of a determined push to secure a full public inquiry into what they describe as a "silent scandal." The campaign group DES Justice UK (DJUK) is also urgently seeking the establishment of a dedicated NHS screening programme to identify individuals who may be at risk from exposure to diethylstilbestrol, commonly known as DES.
The Campaign and Its Members
DJUK represents more than 500 members, including women who were prescribed the drug, as well as their daughters, sons, and granddaughters who have suffered severe health consequences. These issues encompass infertility, various reproductive abnormalities, and a significantly increased risk of developing multiple forms of cancer. The group's meeting with Mr. Streeting aims to compel the government to launch a comprehensive statutory public inquiry into the entire episode.
Historical Use and Dangers of DES
DES is a synthetic form of the female hormone oestrogen that was prescribed to pregnant women from 1940 through the 1970s. It was used to prevent miscarriage, premature labour, and other pregnancy complications, as well as to suppress breast milk production, serve as emergency contraception, and treat menopausal symptoms. According to DJUK, the drug was prescribed to approximately 300,000 women in the UK over nearly four decades.
The dangers became starkly apparent in 1971 when DES was linked to clear cell adenocarcinoma, a rare cancer of the cervix and vagina. This led US regulators to advise against its use for pregnant women. However, the drug continued to be prescribed to pregnant women in Europe until 1978. Beyond clear cell adenocarcinoma, DES exposure is also associated with increased risks of breast, pancreatic, and cervical cancers.
Victims' Harrowing Experiences
Susie Martin, a 55-year-old from Manchester whose mother took DES, has undergone between 20 and 30 operations as a direct result of her exposure. She stated, "The impact of this terrible drug cannot be underestimated as it has ruined and devastated so many lives, including my own. The physical and emotional pain has been unbearable. I always have this impending doom hanging over me that I will need further surgeries or develop cancer, and I am far from the only one."
Ms. Martin emphasized that the meeting with the Health Secretary would only be meaningful if it leads to concrete action, including the implementation of a screening programme and the launch of a full statutory public inquiry. "This has been the silent scandal for too long," she added.
Legal Representation and Demands
Clare Fletcher, partner at Broudie Jackson Canter, who represents DJUK, commented, "We are delighted that Wes Streeting has kept his word and is meeting with us, but words will only go so far. This is one of the biggest pharmaceutical scandals this country has ever seen and we are demanding answers as to how this drug could have been prescribed to so many for so long."
She argued that a statutory public inquiry is the only way to uncover the full truth and described the ongoing suffering as a national disgrace. "The fact is that this isn't a historic injustice as women and men continue to suffer today. It is time that they finally received some justice," Ms. Fletcher asserted.
Government Response and International Context
In November, Health Secretary Wes Streeting told ITV News that the "state got it wrong" and issued an apology to the victims. He also encouraged individuals who believe they may have been affected by DES to consult their GP. A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson acknowledged the harrowing accounts of harm and stated that the Secretary of State is seriously considering what more the government can do to support impacted families.
The spokesperson noted that NHS England has alerted all cancer alliances to the issue to ensure healthcare professionals are aware of DES impacts and existing screening guidance for those showing symptoms. Notably, while compensation schemes for DES victims exist in the United States and the Netherlands, no such scheme has been established in the United Kingdom, adding to the campaigners' demands for redress and recognition.
