Breast Implants Will Now Come with a Scary Cancer Warning in France

Women who want breast implants in France may have a new reason to reconsider—they'll now be officially warned about the risk of cancer that comes with a certain type of implant, the Daily Mail (opens in new tab) reports.

There is a "clearly established link" between silicone breast implants and a rare cancer called anaplastic large cell lymphoma, according to France's National Cancer Institute—there have been 18 cases of the cancer linked to the implants since 2011.

But women with silicone implants shouldn't freak out: Since the cancer is so rare, experts aren't recommending people remove implants they already have. In other words, don't get "carried away by excessive worry," France's health minister, Marisol Touraine, told the AFP (opens in new tab). The rise in cases might simply come from better screenings overall.

One company, Allergan, made 14 of the 18 sets of implants linked with the cancer, but the health agency isn't blaming them. "The security of our patients is our first priority," the company said in a statement, adding that they're working with health authorities on the issue.

Allergan recommends all women 25 or older get an annual health check, which is probably a good idea even if you don't have breast implants. Though the chances of developing cancer are extremely slim, your doctor knows best about any risk factors.

You should also check out:

What Every Young Woman Should Know About Breast Cancer (opens in new tab)

Hidden Camera Reveals How Many People Are Staring at Your Cleavage (opens in new tab)

There's a New Contender in the Breast Cancer Test Market (opens in new tab)