Breast cancer affects millions of women and men worldwide. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors. Emerging research has also uncovered potential links between breast cancer and certain dangerous drugs and environmental exposures.
Related article: What Causes Cancer?
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Understanding Breast Cancer
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast tissue grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a tumor. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant tumors can spread to other body parts through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, known as metastasis.
The disease primarily affects women, but men can develop breast cancer too, although it's much rarer. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer, with an estimated one in eight women developing invasive breast cancer in their lifetime.
Known Risk Factors and Causes
The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, can significantly raise the likelihood of developing this cancer. Hormonal factors, such as early menstruation or late menopause, extended use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and the use of oral contraceptives, also play a role.
Lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of exercise have been linked to an elevated risk of breast cancer. Environmental factors, including exposure to radiation or toxic chemicals, can further increase the risk.
As scientific understanding evolves, researchers are uncovering more about how certain pharmaceuticals and chemicals can contribute to the development of breast cancer.
Emerging Concerns: Dangerous Drugs and Environmental Exposures
Recent studies and legal actions have brought attention to potential links between breast cancer and certain drugs or environmental exposures. While research continues, these emerging concerns warrant closer examination:
NDMA in Zantac
One of the significant concerns in recent years has been the potential link between breast cancer and N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) found in Zantac, a popular heartburn medication.
NDMA is a known carcinogen, and high levels have been detected in some batches of Zantac (ranitidine). This discovery led to the recall of Zantac and its generics in 2020. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory bodies worldwide issued warnings, stating that NDMA could increase the risk of various cancers, including breast cancer.
NDMA is not naturally found in medications like Zantac; rather, it is believed to form through the breakdown of ranitidine under certain conditions, such as when exposed to heat or stored for long periods. When ingested, NDMA can damage DNA, leading to mutations and potentially triggering the uncontrolled cell growth characteristic of cancer.
Although research is ongoing, many individuals who used Zantac for extended periods and developed breast cancer have filed Zantac lawsuits, alleging that the manufacturers failed to warn them of the risks associated with the medication.
NDMA in Valsartan
Similar concerns have been raised regarding Valsartan, a medication used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Like Zantac, some batches of Valsartan were contaminated with NDMA.
This discovery prompted widespread recalls and regulatory investigations. Changes in the manufacturing process may have resulted in NDMA contamination in Valsartan.
Patients who took contaminated Valsartan over an extended period may have been exposed to dangerous levels of NDMA, increasing their risk of developing breast cancer.
As with Zantac, there is ongoing litigation against the manufacturers of Valsartan, with plaintiffs claiming in Valsartan lawsuits that the companies failed to adequately test their products for contaminants or warn the public about potential risks.
AFFF Exposure (Firefighting Foam)
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a firefighting foam used to suppress flammable liquid fires, particularly at airports, military bases, and industrial sites. AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of synthetic chemicals known for their persistence in the environment and the human body. PFAS are often called forever chemicals because they do not break down naturally and can accumulate over time.
Research has suggested that exposure to PFAS, including those found in AFFF, may increase the risk of breast cancer and other cancers. PFAS can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with the body's hormone systems, which can play a significant role in the development of breast cancer.
Firefighters, military personnel, and others regularly exposed to AFFF during training exercises or emergency responses may be at an elevated risk.
AFFF lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturers of AFFF, alleging that they knowingly sold a dangerous product without adequately warning users of the cancer risks. These cases argue that the companies prioritized profit over safety, failing to disclose the potential harm associated with PFAS exposure.
Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune
Camp Lejeune, a U.S. Marine Corps base in North Carolina, has gained notoriety for having contaminated drinking water between the 1950s and the 1980s.
The water supply was tainted with various harmful chemicals, including benzene, vinyl chloride, trichloroethylene (TCE), and perchloroethylene (PCE). These potential carcinogens may cause breast cancer.
Exposure to these contaminants, particularly over an extended period, can disrupt cellular functions and lead to mutations that trigger cancer development. Many veterans, their families, and civilian employees who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune have reported developing breast cancer and other severe health conditions.
The federal government has acknowledged the link between water contamination and several diseases, providing pathways for compensation and medical care for affected individuals.
Thousands of Camp Lejeune lawsuits have been filed on behalf of those who developed breast cancer and other illnesses after exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. These cases often allege negligence on the part of the government and demand justice for those who have suffered as a result of exposure to toxic substances.
Legal Implications and Seeking Justice
The potential links between breast cancer and these dangerous drugs or environmental exposures have significant legal implications. Individuals who have developed breast cancer after exposure to these substances may have grounds for legal action against the responsible parties.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer and has a history of:
- Using Zantac or valsartan regularly
- Exposure to AFFF as a firefighter or military personnel
- Living or working at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987
You may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your diagnosis and treatment.
Taking Action for Your Health and Rights
While many breast cancer risk factors are well-established, emerging concerns about dangerous drugs and environmental exposures highlight the need for ongoing research and vigilance.
If you believe your breast cancer diagnosis may be linked to exposure to NDMA-contaminated drugs, AFFF, or contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, it's essential to consult with a qualified attorney who handles these types of cases. The legal team at Lawsuit Legal News has extensive experience in mass torts and personal injury cases related to dangerous drugs and environmental exposures.
Don't let your rights go unprotected. Contact Lawsuit Legal News today at 866-535-9515 today or complete our simple online form for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Our experienced attorneys are committed to fighting for justice on behalf of breast cancer victims and their families.