tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24713618475151086222024-03-22T05:37:02.469+11:00DES Exposure AustraliaPersonal and consumer aspects of DES exposure in AustraliaCarol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-50511274307644907322014-08-10T00:16:00.001+10:002014-08-10T00:16:41.245+10:00DES contaminated Danish Pork coming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxx9Mv1wWX0kwwkO9tBGb-c99Hvkp-T_pVlqqpTTdS1Iyeic9cyEphCNR-hp_nagQN1Pi2-jS5soJV1ezmVzT35YkPb_iv2LCvaIFm-sw_IFlz7gB2qqn6spfCbtQJOibx41K6rjPMg1j/s1600/DanishPork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxx9Mv1wWX0kwwkO9tBGb-c99Hvkp-T_pVlqqpTTdS1Iyeic9cyEphCNR-hp_nagQN1Pi2-jS5soJV1ezmVzT35YkPb_iv2LCvaIFm-sw_IFlz7gB2qqn6spfCbtQJOibx41K6rjPMg1j/s1600/DanishPork.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
On Google Alert recently there was notice that the Danish Crown has recalled a batch of pork due to traces of the banned hormone, DES. The report details show this product listed for distribution to Australia. Inquiries to the Department of Agriculture by DES Action NSW have revealed this consignment of pork will arrive in Australia in several weeks time.<br />
<br />
In response to the European Commission's warning of the goods in transit to Australia, the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has notified state and territory health authorities to ensure the matter is addressed. It is of concern to DES Action NSW that FSANZ has advised Queensland Health that the pork's concentration of DES is of minimal toxicological concern for humans. Where DES Action NSW's understanding is that there is no known safe level of DES, it is a matter of concern that the Australian response may be based on inaccurate information of there being a safe level.<br />
<br />
Today DES Action NSW has written to Minister for Agriculture, Barnaby Joyce MP, stating the absence of scientific evidence of a safe level of DES. The organisation has forwarded the Minister details of research showing DES residue at low doses in agricultural products to be more effective at inducing cancer than large doses, research showing DES residue in beef to alter testicular development and reproductive capacity, and reports of precocious puberty in young children who have ingested DES contaminated food. In view of this evidence provided, the Minister is urged to comply with zero tolerance for DES residue in imported food as per the Australian Policy Guideline on the Regulation of Residues. Request has been made for border action under the Imported Food Inspection Scheme to assist State government authorities deal with this matter, or even adopting stricter measures.<br />
<br />
Recent media report <i>Local Pork industry</i> <i>calls for Australian-made bacon labelling overhaul -Landline 27/7/14</i> raises concern that imported Danish pork is an accepted ingredient in packaged bacon labelled as an Australian product. Department failure to address DES contaminated pork could mean the spread of DES into Australian bacon products.Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-60934518805929125412014-05-29T19:18:00.000+10:002014-05-29T19:18:54.119+10:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjhsSSuMOvskTRlk1p6Eazfjdpr2unI5gX3KljI2L2nDxa2yeQZJ_LJbAxcHmMzbQffgmBFJuJpA6tngvuiT_fu1OyPCkiUHJ4f6gMaxLfxFGNVuVHoGIF2Mqc8zgSFx6zUhLqWO2P8fHF/s1600/PicMediaAlert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjhsSSuMOvskTRlk1p6Eazfjdpr2unI5gX3KljI2L2nDxa2yeQZJ_LJbAxcHmMzbQffgmBFJuJpA6tngvuiT_fu1OyPCkiUHJ4f6gMaxLfxFGNVuVHoGIF2Mqc8zgSFx6zUhLqWO2P8fHF/s1600/PicMediaAlert.jpg" height="134" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmTRJqRlmkCQpSdkOC5tshu3v_UmNQO6qqQZuPaC9-ZuQ1L1-2MyrWqovs4RyPaeOrLvVaN-JKtOVRkE41SBPKbPuT-UC2JVRptBZkc07rozpgFf-3GsCcTG0bHp1EKgrvmnTAGP3vYgX/s1600/Pic+biomarker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmTRJqRlmkCQpSdkOC5tshu3v_UmNQO6qqQZuPaC9-ZuQ1L1-2MyrWqovs4RyPaeOrLvVaN-JKtOVRkE41SBPKbPuT-UC2JVRptBZkc07rozpgFf-3GsCcTG0bHp1EKgrvmnTAGP3vYgX/s1600/Pic+biomarker.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Hunt for a DES drug Biomarker gives hope for </b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>DES exposed Australians</b></span><br />
<br />
<br />
US researchers from the National Cancer Institute are on the hunt for a biomarker to prove prenatal exposure to the anti-miscarriage drug DES (diethylstilboestrol). Using advanced scientific tools and blood donated by recruits from the National Cancer Institute's DES Follow-up Study, it is hoped a biomarker will be discovered by early next year to identify people exposed to DES in the womb.<br />
<br />
"A simple blood test to prove DES exposure in the womb would help many Australians previously uncertain of DES exposure to determine their need for special health care," says Carol Devine, coordinator of the support advocacy group DES Action NSW.<br />
<br />
"So far successive governments have refused to promote the DES topic directly to the Australian public in health promotion programs due to concern about raising anxiety in people uncertain of DES exposure."<br />
<br />
"But this has meant neglecting the rights of all Australians to be informed of the possibility of DES exposure, with the majority of DES exposed people suffering DES effects without knowing why and what they can do about it," adds Devine.<br />
<br />
DES was prescribed worldwide to over ten million pregnant women over three decades to prevent miscarriage. In the early 1970s it was linked to clear cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina/cervix in women exposed to DES in the womb. It is now known to cause reproductive problems in DES-exposed offspring and increased risk of breast cancer in women given DES during pregnancy and their daughters of that pregnancy. People exposed to DES during pregnancy and in the womb require lifelong specialised vital health care to help detect DES associated cancers early. DES Action NSW estimates about 740,000 Australians have been exposed to DES.<br />
<br />
<b>For <u>DES Awareness Week June 1-7</u>, as well as assisting people learning about their DES exposure for the first time, the DES Action group will be spreading the hopeful news of the DES drug biomarker research. During the Awareness week, June 7 will be set aside to reflect on those who have lost their lives due to DES exposure.</b><br />
<br />
More information about DES can be found at DES Action NSW website: <b> </b>www.desnsw.blogspot.com and on the Cancer Council website at: <a href="http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/880/news-media/get-the-facts/cancer-prevention-get-the-facts/cancer-council-new-south-wales-diethylstilbestrol-des-and-cancer/">http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/880/news-media/get-the-facts/cancer-prevention-get-the-facts/cancer-council-new-south-wales-diethylstilbestrol-des-and-cancer/</a><b> </b>or by phoning DES Action NSW 02 98754820.<br />
<br />
-END-<br />
Information sources:<br />
<a href="http://us5.campaign-archive2.com/?u=317818521a5c55131fb1beaf1&id=33b47bfd59&e=a002bf1fe2">http://us5.campaign-archive2.com/?u=317818521a5c55131fb1beaf1&id=33b47bfd59&e=a002bf1fe2</a><br />
<a href="http://dceg.cancer.gov/about/staff-directory/biographies/O-Z/hoover-robert">http://dceg.cancer.gov/about/staff-directory/biographies/O-Z/hoover-robert</a><br />
<a href="http://www.desfollowupstudy.org/index.asp">http://www.desfollowupstudy.org/index.asp</a><br />
Correspondence: Dr Michael Wooldridge 12/10/99, Minister for Health and aged Care (regarding community anxiety with DES exposure information)<br />
<b>For more information or interviews, contact:</b><br />
<b>Carol Devine</b><br />
<b>E: c_devine@bigpond.net.au</b><br />
<b>P: 02 98754820 </b>Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-66022554084731203332014-04-09T10:40:00.000+10:002014-04-10T00:03:11.959+10:00<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEIs50US-7T8tr-CpACWperYLegRJwgWkuKzvj2UcZwYs7xlm6_XS4k2Tu3ITwSOq4BNZkUALnkCrCgn1M2qSwXNoOmudnkkmdfH5hIiubQeOy09lmVn_ZMgzwCvBCyqLy4x93Gjir1pBR/s1600/PicMediaAlert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEIs50US-7T8tr-CpACWperYLegRJwgWkuKzvj2UcZwYs7xlm6_XS4k2Tu3ITwSOq4BNZkUALnkCrCgn1M2qSwXNoOmudnkkmdfH5hIiubQeOy09lmVn_ZMgzwCvBCyqLy4x93Gjir1pBR/s1600/PicMediaAlert.jpg" height="134" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOdvINH7lsnugjRzwUKw_wQu0vC3n86FwH_q09Hm1BzLemFzucxn2b999zRG5mZXN0tpTWgwBhjfJUtfIJ4Lr5ooSQQ-QsEqcU1LWJf8VVACmfFAFCo1NpAlLp8nBLWJfsxIii17ZBD9ci/s1600/picIndia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOdvINH7lsnugjRzwUKw_wQu0vC3n86FwH_q09Hm1BzLemFzucxn2b999zRG5mZXN0tpTWgwBhjfJUtfIJ4Lr5ooSQQ-QsEqcU1LWJf8VVACmfFAFCo1NpAlLp8nBLWJfsxIii17ZBD9ci/s1600/picIndia.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a></div>
MEDIA ALERT<br />
9th April 2014<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Indian website promotes dangerous DES drug</b></span></div>
<br />
<br />
Shock waves were sent through the Australian group, DES Action NSW last week when its members discovered that DES (diethylstilboestrol) is currently listed for usage in pregnancy on the Indian website <i>Medindia</i>. This discovery supports what the DES Action group has both feared and suspected about this cancer-causing drug since receiving anecdotal stories in the 1990s of its continued usage in pregnancy after it having been contraindicated from this usage some twenty years earlier.<br />
<br />
DES was prescribed worldwide to over ten million pregnant women over three decades to prevent miscarriage. In the early 1970s it was linked to clear cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina/cervix in women exposed to DES in the womb. It is now known to cause reproductive problems in DES-exposed offspring and increased risk of breast cancer in women given DES during pregnancy and their daughters of that pregnancy. People exposed to DES during pregnancy and in the womb require lifelong specialised health care.<br />
<br />
"In the 1990s we received word from some south-western Sydney doctors and doctors from overseas studying at University of NSW that DES was being prescribed in pregnancy in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka," says Carol Devine, DES Action NSW coordinator. "No words can describe the shock these doctors felt when learning from us for the first time about harm caused by DES, whilst having knowledge that DES was being prescribed during pregnancy in their respective home countries," says Devine.<br />
<br />
Medical experts at a 1992 symposium in Sweden made calls for measures to address the continued usage of DES in pregnancy in many parts of the world, including East and Central Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America. However, it is unclear what actions ensued. The DES Action NSW group is now urging women who may have been given DES during pregnancy in India or any doctors with knowledge of this usage to report this to government medical authorities in India.<br />
<br />
The DES Action group is concerned that there may even be women or doctors from India now living in Australia who have information on this to report. The group is interested in hearing from these people.<br />
<br />
"The apparent inertia in dealing with continued DES usage is tragic, and in retrospect it should have always been incumbent on governments worldwide to issue frequent warnings about the danger of DES," comments Devine.<br />
<br />
More information about DES can be found at <a href="http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/880/news-media/get-the-facts/cancer-prevention-get-the-facts/cancer-council-new-south-wales-diethylstilbestrol-des-and-cancer/">Cancer Council NSW</a> and the contact for DES Action NSW is 02 9875 4820/c_devine@bigpond.net.au<br />
<br />
-ENDS-<br />
References:<br />
<a href="http://www.medindia.net/drugs/medical-condition/Miscarriage.htm">http://www.medindia.net/drugs/medical-condition/Miscarriage.htm</a> (DES indicated for usage during pregnancy to prevent miscarriage)<br />
<a href="http://www.medindia.net/doctors/drug_information/diethylstilbestrol.htm">http://www.medindia.net/doctors/drug_information/diethylstilbestrol.htm</a> (DES usage is indicated in pregnancy and then its listing as contraindicated creates confusion)<br />
<a href="http://desnsw.blogspot.com.au/2009/04/real-multicultural-affair.html">http://desnsw.blogspot.com.au/2009/04/real-multicultural-affair.html</a>Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-7176116114966150542013-11-11T12:12:00.000+11:002013-12-06T14:54:15.553+11:00Macquarie University does DES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIT6CMQT3QUHhBbiWTxNgNODJm4kgAhPHCQ8E-eIW-AsWnD-PseBhBwMbCaNUAYcDxEzlbKnRHSkeABJVLJq5bnWD-Sy52gCWQfaK6oXzmfo2Fg4ZAoCyrSE7fRjLrWDT6hHta7aB1V3JB/s1600/grapeshotLogo2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIT6CMQT3QUHhBbiWTxNgNODJm4kgAhPHCQ8E-eIW-AsWnD-PseBhBwMbCaNUAYcDxEzlbKnRHSkeABJVLJq5bnWD-Sy52gCWQfaK6oXzmfo2Fg4ZAoCyrSE7fRjLrWDT6hHta7aB1V3JB/s200/grapeshotLogo2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The Macquarie University student publication "Grapeshot" - Issue 8, 2013 has an article about DES on page 9! Fingers crossed this will create waves of academic interest. For a clear view, click onto <a href="http://grapeshotmq.com.au/2013/11/des-carries-on/">DES Carries On</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGU-QKEa4ts88UfbdB1s8vFNIB5CJNg2L2nV6sdVcCtICVGEY4W7rHlA7qAvC0ckJ0Zz_dwi8mbASFfvEyPBR_13nAIZeObErvqShPm8m7W0W64XyH5fObb5FDgY6X-G-KgaGDECBqvBOe/s1600/GrapeshotArticle+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGU-QKEa4ts88UfbdB1s8vFNIB5CJNg2L2nV6sdVcCtICVGEY4W7rHlA7qAvC0ckJ0Zz_dwi8mbASFfvEyPBR_13nAIZeObErvqShPm8m7W0W64XyH5fObb5FDgY6X-G-KgaGDECBqvBOe/s640/GrapeshotArticle+001.jpg" width="416" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-41085362672941098762013-10-04T22:48:00.001+10:002013-10-14T19:15:37.160+11:00Mental Health of DES Daughters & Sons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpeXpBX-82niRvlNCaiJ7gwNjtBm0t6an4onSdjDpNIRoBe_qVAINKG_dlSXuB3TR-1nV6c94WPk9nfWE7PHF-GR55gGAqfky100sBwtvOnZyMu3Q-CGMESkHVBGyMb4cJRWHvUAaEyKpL/s1600/PicMentalHealth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpeXpBX-82niRvlNCaiJ7gwNjtBm0t6an4onSdjDpNIRoBe_qVAINKG_dlSXuB3TR-1nV6c94WPk9nfWE7PHF-GR55gGAqfky100sBwtvOnZyMu3Q-CGMESkHVBGyMb4cJRWHvUAaEyKpL/s320/PicMentalHealth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
A 9-year comprehensive study by French researcher, Marie-Odile Soyer-Gobillard has revealed a link between DES and mental health issues in DES daughters and DES sons. The study involved the hormones DES, 17-alpha-ethinylestradiol (synthetic EE) and synthetic progestin. A report in 2011 stated DES was often in a cocktail with EE and progestin.<br />
<br />
Gobillard's study is not epidemiological, but rather provides a database for further research. It is interesting to note that in three previous epidemiological studies about the link between DES and psychiatric disorders, two favour the hypothesis of a causal link and one reaches a different conclusion. <br />
<br />
Psychiatric disorders found by the Gobillard study were: Alcohol addiction, learning disorders, eating disorders, behavioral disorders (aggressiveness, impulsivity), sleep disorders, anxiety disorders, mood swings, major depressive episodes, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenia, acute psychotic episodes, series of suicide attempts, and suicides. Across all synthetic oestrogens, girls were observed to be more vulnerable than boys for both somatic and psychiatric disorders.<br />
<br />
In figures as of April 2012, Gobillard has revealed some disturbing statistics involving the mental health of 1676 DES daughters and DES sons. Of those exposed to DES in the womb, 1334 had reported psychiatric disorders. Of these Gobillard identified 128 attempted suicides and 48 suicides. <br />
<br />
The above findings give rise to questions among DES Action groups. A link of this kind would easily go unnoticed, since previous emphasis has been on physical effects. Additionally there would be stigma felt by people experiencing psychological disorders, enough to dissuade their reporting these conditions to Action groups.<br />
<br />
<b>Links for more information:</b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://desdaughter.wordpress.com/2013/09/29/behavioral-and-somatic-disorders-in-children-exposed-in-utero-to-synthetic-hormones/">Behavioral and somatic Disorders in Children Exposed in Utero to Synthetic Hormones, by #Hhorages</a><br />
<br />
<u>Behavioral and Somatic Disorders in Children Exposed in Utero to Synthetic Hormones: A Testimony<b>-</b>Case Study in a French Family Troop</u><b><br /></b><br />
by Marie-Odile Soyer-Gobillard, Charles Sultan (2012), Dr. Sameh Magdeldin (Ed.), ISBN: 978-953-51-0772-9, InTech, DOI: 10.57772/48637.<br />
<a href="http://www.intechopen.com/books/state-of-the-art-of-therapeutic-endocrinology/behavioral-and-somatic-disorders-in-children-exposed-in-utero-to-synthetic-hormones-a-testimony-case">http://www.intechopen.com/books/state-of-the-art-of-therapeutic-endocrinology/behavioral-and-somatic-disorders-in-children-exposed-in-utero-to-synthetic-hormones-a-testimony-case</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5ppo1RuEQuXDWW-5n9RcGBlX92FWQYf1ams0qiI5eV9eq5dYIqnGrR0S3BR1tuu-OPTrcFNKV-kC0pOWmN23ojaMCLag-yVBD7o7XLL8T-LBOctivYVkjLGTb_JzijjvAr1pPjUAI-9Y/s1600/PicMediaAlert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5ppo1RuEQuXDWW-5n9RcGBlX92FWQYf1ams0qiI5eV9eq5dYIqnGrR0S3BR1tuu-OPTrcFNKV-kC0pOWmN23ojaMCLag-yVBD7o7XLL8T-LBOctivYVkjLGTb_JzijjvAr1pPjUAI-9Y/s200/PicMediaAlert.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
14th October 2013<br />
<br />
<b>Anti-Miscarriage drug linked to mental health problems</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b> </b>A recent French study has linked the anti-miscarriage drug, diethylstilboestrol (DES) with psychiatric disorders in the children exposed to the drug in the womb. Researcher, Marie-Odile Soyer-Gobillard, has revealed serious psychological side effects in "DES daughters" and "DES sons", with a worryingly high incidence of attempted suicide and suicide<b>.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
An estimated 740,000<b> </b>Australians have been affected by DES, which was<b> </b>prescribed to pregnant women between 1940 and 1971 (and sometimes beyond). DES causes reproductive problems and an increased risk of certain cancers (breast, cervical and vaginal) in those women given DES and their children of that pregnancy.<br />
<br />
In a familial case control study by Soyer-Gobillard, a range of psychological disorders are reported across exposed and non-exposed groups, which include eating disorders, sleeping disorders, anxiety disorders, major depression, bipolar disorders and schizophrenia. Out of 1676 DES daughters and DES sons, 1334 reported psychiatric disorders, with 128 attempted suicides and 48 suicides. In terms of both psychological and somatic disorders, DES daughters suffered more than DES sons.<br />
<br />
"These disturbing study results have opened up a whole new area of concern to us," says Carol Devine, coordinator of DES Action NSW. "Emphasis has always been on physical effects of DES exposure, and then coupled with the stigma felt by people in mentioning mental health problems, it is no wonder this link has gone unnoticed," adds Devine.<br />
<br />
Over 10 million people were exposed to DES worldwide and many people remain unaware of their exposure to DES and the potential adverse health effects of DES. People exposed require vital special health care. In Australia there has been no promotion of DES information in public health programs due to concern this may create community anxiety. People can find out about DES at www.desnsw.blogspot.com or by phoning DES Action NSW 02 98754820.<br />
<br />
<b>HEALTH CHECK LIST: </b>If you tick 'yes' to any of the following, ask your doctor about possible exposure to DES:<br />
<ul>
<li>Does your mother recall having previous miscarriages or being prescribed medications while pregnant? DES was most commonly prescribed to prevent miscarriage and for pregnancy complications such as bleeding. It was also known as "stilboestrol".</li>
<li>If unable to ask your mother, does your health history show a series of reproductive problems such as cancer, difficulty in getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term or near term, ectopic (tubal) pregnancy, miscarriages or premature deliveries?</li>
<li>Does your mother remember only being given "hormones" during pregnancy? It is worthwhile having a check-up, informing the doctor your mother was given hormones during pregnancy. Progesterone, another hormone, may have also been used to prevent miscarriage and research has shown no problems with this.</li>
</ul>
-ENDS-<br />
<br />
Information sources:<br />
<a href="http://www.intechopen.com/books/state-of-the-art-of-therapeutic-endocrinology/behavioral-and-somatic-disorders-in-children-exposed-in-utero-to-synthetic-hormones-a-testimony-case">http://www.intechopen.com/books/state-of-the-art-of-therapeutic-endocrinology/behavioral-and-somatic-disorders-in-children-exposed-in-utero-to-synthetic-hormones-a-testimony-case</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/880/news-media/get-the-facts/cancer-prevention-get-the-facts/cancer-council-new-south-wales-diethylstilbestrol-des-and-cancer/">http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/880/news-media/get-the-facts/cancer-prevention-get-the-facts/cancer-council-new-south-wales-diethylstilbestrol-des-and-cancer/</a><br />
<br />
For more information or interviews, contact:<br />
<br />
Carol Devine<br />
E: c_devine@bigpond.net.au<br />
P: (02) 98754820Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-86590426194798082632013-09-03T00:05:00.000+10:002013-09-03T00:05:19.698+10:00DESperately seeking celebrities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEvNjmHtaaZj80RULHnEeChG6gTkpLRnMZxuKh02k245ASIB25TE5EHHC-lNx7WOmrVFOJ35hE2qIZNWeqFqJr3PajoIJz4natv1vp2LLWrrQOjdahx_E-RZN_KIo7S-HGZy8g44qPMUbE/s1600/PicAmyWeber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEvNjmHtaaZj80RULHnEeChG6gTkpLRnMZxuKh02k245ASIB25TE5EHHC-lNx7WOmrVFOJ35hE2qIZNWeqFqJr3PajoIJz4natv1vp2LLWrrQOjdahx_E-RZN_KIo7S-HGZy8g44qPMUbE/s320/PicAmyWeber.jpg" width="237" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In June this year, US model, actress and billboard recording artist Amy Weber opened up with her story on the TV program <i>The Doctors</i> about her experience as a DES daughter. Amy describes her struggle to become a mother after undergoing treatment for cervical cancer. In May 2009 Amy was finally able to fulfill her dream of becoming a mother. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As a result of Amy's very brave testimony, many thousands of TV viewers will learn about DES. If individuals know or suspect DES exposure, they will hopefully be able to navigate their way to find accurate information, such as what DES Action groups provide. No doubt Amy's actions will help many DES affected, including those who up until now have been unaware of the harm caused by DES and the special vital health care they need. We owe huge thanks to Amy!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Australia DESperately needs someone too, with the likes of Amy Weber, to bravely showcase their DES exposure experience in the Australian media. We wait and wish <i>Down Under </i>for this to happen.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Viewers can see here what Amy went through during her high-risk pregnancy, and meet her family!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBsra_rkFKk&feature=c4-overview&list=UUk0RusxIwL8jSPwV9b4i4Tg">Amy Weber's DES Story</a> </div>
Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-72489696987950743572013-08-03T22:32:00.000+10:002013-08-03T22:32:03.755+10:00Australian Senate on DES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJqSFdSpIX1d3nv9LztTH7uPQZ6rXCPEtQEgY7un4gaEftRadu98I8thSVgINyfcQUBR504e05PhJHbe68uK7BxUj1aK8-J-91jNb99zt1OrQXhOhhTnx8LEh6a9DqA_yYG-Vy3M7J7EB/s1600/senate+logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJqSFdSpIX1d3nv9LztTH7uPQZ6rXCPEtQEgY7un4gaEftRadu98I8thSVgINyfcQUBR504e05PhJHbe68uK7BxUj1aK8-J-91jNb99zt1OrQXhOhhTnx8LEh6a9DqA_yYG-Vy3M7J7EB/s200/senate+logo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
The Senate has responded to 27 questions in relation to the Australian DES exposure problem. You will find the questions and response at: <a href="http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Chamber_documents/Senate_chamber_documents/qon/question?number=2648">Senate on DES</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Questions were not painstakingly answered and various aspects were ignored, eg,<br />
<ul>
<li>that many people remain unaware of their exposure to DES and the potential adverse health effects </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>the question of how the department is measuring the effectiveness of DES information on departmental and a number of medical websites.</li>
</ul>
Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-132262037337418392013-08-01T01:48:00.000+10:002013-08-01T01:48:27.356+10:00New Name New Logo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYltVTYaUtOGq7OSIyJZd0fNcg7YwQr-C60wSCU3nhkoj_1oUTfFyWRFbhxJ9TsPA76tuTlMtgCXg5cBe0DwVoPlYUKFUbilUZD8bfIqsxCvnrUR14Yuoyrca5yMMAVgUGDJGWZuS2K_Y/s1600/logoJPG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYltVTYaUtOGq7OSIyJZd0fNcg7YwQr-C60wSCU3nhkoj_1oUTfFyWRFbhxJ9TsPA76tuTlMtgCXg5cBe0DwVoPlYUKFUbilUZD8bfIqsxCvnrUR14Yuoyrca5yMMAVgUGDJGWZuS2K_Y/s320/logoJPG.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
To assert our independence and to avoid being mistaken as a branch of any other DES Action groups in Australia, we have changed our name to <b>DES ACTION NSW</b>. The group's new logo, using gender-neutral orange colour, symbolically depicts the DES theme. The white "DES" circle within the orange circle represents DES in the womb. The three smaller circles represent subsequent generations. A brilliant and fresh-looking design for such a complex issue! Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-73538909973520375152013-01-15T00:32:00.000+11:002013-08-07T22:51:44.194+10:00Worldwide Petition for Lilly to "fess up"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntFzbR1rUbn5ZVVj7GoANKyPnWJCa2p0TUXv6mCYYTZ5kfB2hYTv_3t6hnJZJe9X7Gyh7l39mUqKXwB1i9Scyxb8JbCNOHjtvH88y58ZadMwrZxAsSL5RFBmKSsTWbEoVDohMFA8ogvDi/s1600/lillyAnger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntFzbR1rUbn5ZVVj7GoANKyPnWJCa2p0TUXv6mCYYTZ5kfB2hYTv_3t6hnJZJe9X7Gyh7l39mUqKXwB1i9Scyxb8JbCNOHjtvH88y58ZadMwrZxAsSL5RFBmKSsTWbEoVDohMFA8ogvDi/s400/lillyAnger.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Patricia Royall, a plaintiff in one of the pending DES breast cancer lawsuits, attended the recent DES breast cancer trial in Boston. She became upset when she heard Eli Lilly's announcement after the settlement. Eli Lilly said, "While we continue to believe that Lilly's medication did not cause the conditions alleged in the lawsuit, we believe the settlement is in the best interests of the company."<br />
<br />
Not content to sit back and do nothing, Patricia has headed up a worldwide petition demanding Eli Lilly's CEO to "fess up" about DES and aims for 5,000 signatures. This petition is fast gaining publicity and infiltrating cyber networks. The fact of Eli Lilly's lack of remorse and refusal to "fess up" whilst spending millions settling DES lawsuits is enough to make anyone chew nails and spit tacks. The groundswell of hostility and determination is evident among the DES community who have made comments on the petition website. Even celebrity stars are joining in to sign the petition!<br />
<br />
To sign the petition, click on <a href="http://www.thepetitionsite.com/555/889/673/eli-lilly-fess-up-on-des/">http://www.thepetitionsite.com/555/889/673/eli-lilly-fess-up-on-des/</a><br />
<br />
The twitter hashtag #keepLillyhonest is also trending.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAr7EtvrBUP-gIvzO7Eo0X6ETmimAc_MucU8EezygV3KL9wR8TfMTw18GbiApG4bzTANmAo3Ixa-OMmQwetlXLfzGqdjfIESdCFOzErYqcLM_0EZjp_EaPEXZBlsLTkdxSfsViignXR8Yr/s1600/Patricia-Royall-1-250x250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAr7EtvrBUP-gIvzO7Eo0X6ETmimAc_MucU8EezygV3KL9wR8TfMTw18GbiApG4bzTANmAo3Ixa-OMmQwetlXLfzGqdjfIESdCFOzErYqcLM_0EZjp_EaPEXZBlsLTkdxSfsViignXR8Yr/s200/Patricia-Royall-1-250x250.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Patricia, pictured left, hopes the petition, as well as sending the message to Eli Lilly that DES exposed people are not going away, will raise worldwide awareness of DES.<br />
<a href="http://catchinghealth.bangordailynews.com/2013/01/12/mens-and-womens-health/des-daughter-petitions-eli-lilly-to-fess-up-on-des/">http://catchinghealth.bangordailynews.com/2013/01/12/mens-and-womens-health/des-daughter-petitions-eli-lilly-to-fess-up-on-des/</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>HEAR WHAT LILLY IS DOING</u></b><br />
<br />
Listen to Voice Over "Eli Lilly DES Tragedy" by Larry Murphy:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://desdaughter.wordpress.com/2013/08/06/listen-to-eli-lilly-des-tragedy-by-larry-murphy-on-soundcloud/">Eli Lilly DES Tragedy</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Update 18/1/13</b></u><br />
Votes and comments are coming in from the Australian DES exposed contingent. Thank you and keep it up! Read article <a href="http://celebritiesindisgrace.wordpress.com/2013/01/17/eli-lillys-continued-d-e-s-shame-an-update/#more-8934">http://celebritiesindisgrace.wordpress.com/2013/01/17/eli-lillys-continued-d-e-s-shame-an-update/#more-8934</a><br />
<br />
<u><b>Update 24/1/13</b></u><br />
Listen to the articulate Andrea Goldstein, DES daughter, Gynaecology Nurse outline what Eli Lilly has done to us in the medical/social historical context:<br />
<a href="http://www.superhumanradio.com/components/com_podcast/media/mp3s/SHR_Show_1127.mp3">http://www.superhumanradio.com/components/com_podcast/media/mp3s/SHR_Show_1127.mp3</a><br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0Bw4vtEP44LmhX3drTDRIbUwzekk/edit">https://docs.google.com/file/d/0Bw4vtEP44LmhX3drTDRIbUwzekk/edit</a> <br />
<br />
Read Breast Cancer Action USA published article:<br />
<a href="http://bcaction.org/2013/01/22/a-mothers-guilt-des-a-tragedy-of-three-generations/">http://bcaction.org/2013/01/22/a-mothers-guilt-des-a-tragedy-of-three-generations/</a><br />
<br />Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-83338716850260315592013-01-11T14:50:00.000+11:002013-02-01T12:42:02.972+11:00BREAST CANCER VICTIMS DENIED DES INFORMATION<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TWGOHZ-imKedOm4FFralBNq8EC4OLawEJF82Y0trFK5JzCMj7_4xA75CA8k1Ns_CksHiNQnlVWTEKxf5fO8n9OF3Sl5f4rzBnKPCqWu3yfTMeEn2LluceqqIedZeMKRavatWnD5Adtr9/s1600/Breast+cancer+vicitm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TWGOHZ-imKedOm4FFralBNq8EC4OLawEJF82Y0trFK5JzCMj7_4xA75CA8k1Ns_CksHiNQnlVWTEKxf5fO8n9OF3Sl5f4rzBnKPCqWu3yfTMeEn2LluceqqIedZeMKRavatWnD5Adtr9/s200/Breast+cancer+vicitm.jpg" width="109" /></a></div>
<u><b>Media Release</b></u><br />
11th January 2013<br />
<u><b> </b></u><br />
<b>Australian breast cancer victims denied DES information</b><br />
<br />
A breakthrough legal case this week in Boston USA against drug company Eli Lilly has opened the compensation floodgates for breast cancer victims who were exposed in the womb to the anti-miscarriage drug DES. But thousands<b> </b>of Australian women diagnosed with breast cancer are oblivious to the fact of their DES exposure, its full health implications, the vital health care they need, and that they too, might have opportunity to get compensation.<br />
<br />
DES, or diethylstilboestrol, was prescribed to millions of pregnant women over three decades to prevent miscarriage. It was taken off the market in the early 1970s after it was linked to clear cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina/cervix in women exposed to DES fin the womb. The DES Action group in NSW says there would be thousands of women diagnosed with breast cancer among their estimated 185,000 DES daughters in Australia who are oblivious to the link between DES and breast cancer.<br />
<br />
"The DES health situation in this country is a huge mess," says Carol Devine, the group's coordinator. "Protecting drug companies is likely at the core of it, especially where the government refuses to promote the DES health issue in public health programs." "The population is oblivious to this extremely harmful drug and now our breast cancer victims are suffering," adds Devine.<br />
<br />
The Breastscreen Australia Evaluation Report in 2009 stated DES daughters do not require extra screening. However, there is contradictory advice by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Cancer Council NSW that DES daughters should have annual mammography and breast checks.<br />
<br />
More information about DES at www.desnsw.blogspot.com Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-69603792262883243352013-01-10T17:52:00.000+11:002013-01-10T17:52:46.106+11:00US Victory/Australian DES Mess<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqbrMZ90H_2p5tVp-Rno1Uamo21MT-5aCHcO-KNRrQneFjcoa5kg0INrH8KGoiLBXkvOWrflrcUoKjSuho40MguHMPgGRTQAB-0QXmGWY7WN6KVKQkAAfxrFoCjoc9Qxn3ePIPfWXEYkC/s1600/victory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqbrMZ90H_2p5tVp-Rno1Uamo21MT-5aCHcO-KNRrQneFjcoa5kg0INrH8KGoiLBXkvOWrflrcUoKjSuho40MguHMPgGRTQAB-0QXmGWY7WN6KVKQkAAfxrFoCjoc9Qxn3ePIPfWXEYkC/s200/victory.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
From USA this week comes the welcomed news of the successful legal settlement by four sisters who sued drug company Eli Lilly, claiming their breast cancer was caused by their exposure to DES in the womb. The Melnick sisters' case was the first to go to trial out of scores of similar claims filed around US.<br />
<a href="http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/world/us-cancer-sisters-settle-with-drug-firm/story-e6frfkui-1226550863417">http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/world/us-cancer-sisters-settle-with-drug-firm/story-e6frfkui-1226550863417</a><br />
<br />
<br />
This legal breakthrough highlights the mess in Australian DES health care, where thousands of Australian women diagnosed with breast cancer are oblivious to the fact of having been DES exposed. Adding insult to injury, the 2009 Breastscreen Evaluation Report stated DES daughters do not need extra screening, when we know they need annual mammography according to Cancer Council NSW and RANZCOG advice. At the very core of this DES mess is the Australian government's refusal to promote DES information in public health programs, thus denying the prospects of Australians ever knowing the possibility of having been exposed to the drug.<br />
<br />
Today the publication for doctors, <i>Medical Observer</i> reported about the legal trial's success, but failed to address breast health care advice for DES daughters. Our NSW DES Action group has written to the Federal Health Minister today requesting her prompt investigation into this terrible discrepancy in breast health care advice for DES daughters. Our group has sent media releases about the successful trial and our urgent matter to major newspapers across Australia.Now we just wait for the Australian media to wake up and see the seriousness of our DES mess.Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-40391831415704126132013-01-05T00:43:00.000+11:002013-01-05T00:43:16.912+11:00Breast Cancer Lawsuit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6gtjsROSxME-gfak8YbRykfCkjIfGth_wz9llWOlCXMgKB0obv_29LObUwmk0cWdwz0vMyB08sesERwOzuVEx9mNFpqhFRpGegbSggXOMoRTV-0MKn1FjqLAYP_KFwy01HC-MmDwhb8Jp/s1600/breast+cancer+trial.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6gtjsROSxME-gfak8YbRykfCkjIfGth_wz9llWOlCXMgKB0obv_29LObUwmk0cWdwz0vMyB08sesERwOzuVEx9mNFpqhFRpGegbSggXOMoRTV-0MKn1FjqLAYP_KFwy01HC-MmDwhb8Jp/s200/breast+cancer+trial.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
This week US media has been reporting on the DES lawsuit about to unfold in Boston federal court this Friday. This case involves the Melnick sisters, who will be suing drug manufacturer Eli Lilly & Co. All DES daughters, the four sisters Donna, Michele, Andrea and Francine, aside from suffering DES associated problems of miscarriages, fertility and reproductive tract problems, have all been diagnosed with breast cancer. Their case is the first among 51 other DES daughters similarly affected by breast cancer with cases pending. <br />
<br />
Some media articles here (one including Boston TV footage):<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/03/diethylstilbestrol-lawsuit-des-pregnancy-drug-melnick-sisters-breast-cancer_n_2405316.html">http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/03/diethylstilbestrol-lawsuit-des-pregnancy-drug-melnick-sisters-breast-cancer_n_2405316.html</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://boston.cbslocal.com/2013/01/03/4-sisters-who-had-breast-cancer-sue-drugmaker-over-mothers-medication/">http://boston.cbslocal.com/2013/01/03/4-sisters-who-had-breast-cancer-sue-drugmaker-over-mothers-medication/</a> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-41238665165846963792012-12-13T10:41:00.000+11:002012-12-13T10:41:30.529+11:00BIG PHARMACY PROJECT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJIj-gypUSNNxsapUUi6els4hEVSpgQpDeteTXLz1UVRJSSV8V599qpSEBbD5877PFCR4InAvzvK60SOEmurTu40Sl6Ut5gPL8zjUG-u5efVwrDvzILX3LmSsEXH02pKiqXsNXdJrqrw2/s1600/PharmacyLogo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdJIj-gypUSNNxsapUUi6els4hEVSpgQpDeteTXLz1UVRJSSV8V599qpSEBbD5877PFCR4InAvzvK60SOEmurTu40Sl6Ut5gPL8zjUG-u5efVwrDvzILX3LmSsEXH02pKiqXsNXdJrqrw2/s200/PharmacyLogo.png" width="200" /></a></div>
A pilot project is currently being undertaken by DES Action Australia-NSW to determine whether targeting pharmacy customers is the most effective means of raising DES awareness in the Australian community. This involves interested retail pharmacies displaying DES information for a 12 month period (if possible).<br />
<br />
<b>....and now we need your help</b><br />
<br />
If you think your local pharmacy or pharmacies might be interested, please contact 02 98754820 or c_devine@bigpond.net.au for a <i>Pharmacy DES information kit </i>for you to take along to the pharmacy and then confirm interest at the above contact. Thank you!<b> </b> <br />
<br />
<br />Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-26208002889933424612012-10-21T18:09:00.000+11:002012-10-21T18:09:54.196+11:00DES victims call to sisterhood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlgut4JgWngQDXC4OJSGhJTGJfJK-YYpSiIfMJ217wuguXP2zLvJEWh6XYNU7imKPN9U45lbX4LdhKSIrGP45vfUtglNQUBCGgwQCXMLreGveUE2zHBaDHuaVLJvSlSFUXFiMC89DMarR/s1600/sisterhood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlgut4JgWngQDXC4OJSGhJTGJfJK-YYpSiIfMJ217wuguXP2zLvJEWh6XYNU7imKPN9U45lbX4LdhKSIrGP45vfUtglNQUBCGgwQCXMLreGveUE2zHBaDHuaVLJvSlSFUXFiMC89DMarR/s200/sisterhood.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
DES Action Australia-NSW believes it's time for peak women's organisations across Australia to embrace the DES health problems as a human rights matter. DES Action has provided the top five groups with background, government documents obtained via FOI about DES and information, in order to raise further awareness of DES among women and policy makers across the country.<br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
Over four decades the great majority of an estimated 740,000 women prescribed DES during pregnancy and their children exposed to DES in the womb have been unaware of the danger of DES. Consequently they have been missing out on information about the vital special health care for their increased risks of clear cell adenocarcinoma of the vagina/cervix (CCA), breast cancer and other reproductive problems.<br />
<br />
"A better understanding of the DES health condition and how this issue came to fall off the radar of health authorities and medical professionals will help major women's groups realise the importance of addressing the problems experienced by the Australian DES exposed population, the majority of whom are women," says group coordinator, Carol Devine. <br />
<br />
It is common for the group to receive phone calls from women who have suffered the effects of DES without knowing why, and are only now learning about the harm caused by DES and the rightful health care they need through the group's own media efforts. Last year the New England Journal of Medicine revealed women exposed to DES in utero are at an increased risk of at least 12 adverse health conditions - in some cases up to three times that of other women.<br />
<br />
Researchers are still following the health of the DES exposed population to determine whether other health problems occur with age and whether subsequent generations are affected. Women's groups interested in information can contact DES Action Australia-NSW, c_devine@bigpond.net.au / 02 9875 4820.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kxlCSIEn0i78kqVsd5ii_04f0c3868qgqW9pP0uyfWjubesXZVyKAMye0mkfTxb-T6N1oFPbVdBda9k9JM9IghqoVDRojilCO3fAJh3kZixAcyQZBAeS54mlvAkF4F-XIOJS7CcpMTrb/s1600/NCA+USA+Stats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kxlCSIEn0i78kqVsd5ii_04f0c3868qgqW9pP0uyfWjubesXZVyKAMye0mkfTxb-T6N1oFPbVdBda9k9JM9IghqoVDRojilCO3fAJh3kZixAcyQZBAeS54mlvAkF4F-XIOJS7CcpMTrb/s320/NCA+USA+Stats.jpg" width="186" /></a></div>
From National Cancer Institute USA.<br /><br />
<br />Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-64574523810837469202012-08-04T01:04:00.000+10:002012-08-11T02:22:49.496+10:00WONDER DRUG almost makes it!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Mx_vuM5vEWBU0YF903TT7oL5ruMpXTveI-yKg349JI6K0u5r92JM8bW3fvxOL8Z3h3zyiBpIX6UN-O0PDMaPnw_7NVOmaohxmGq844HyC1r3S3JnM84BAiOtd8PWRPWRhvLnatNF1vlc/s1600/des_ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Mx_vuM5vEWBU0YF903TT7oL5ruMpXTveI-yKg349JI6K0u5r92JM8bW3fvxOL8Z3h3zyiBpIX6UN-O0PDMaPnw_7NVOmaohxmGq844HyC1r3S3JnM84BAiOtd8PWRPWRhvLnatNF1vlc/s200/des_ad.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
This week the film in development, WONDER DRUG was so very close to winning public votes in a survey by <b>Indiewire. </b>The winning margin was only 3%!!<br />
You can see more about WONDER DRUG at <a href="http://www.wonderdrugthemovie.com/">http://www.wonderdrugthemovie.com/</a><br />
<br />
Thank you to everyone who voted. We are all supportive of screen writer and DES daughter, Caitlin McCarthy in her quest for Wonder DRUG to make it to the big screen. With this, there is hope the film will be shown Australia and further raise consciousness of drug disasters. And yes, drug disasters look set to continue with the now usage of dexamethasone in pregnant women to prevent intersex, tomboys and lesbians ( <a href="http://www.northwestern.edu/newscenter/stories/2012/08/dreger-fetal-engineering.html">http://www.northwestern.edu/newscenter/stories/2012/08/dreger-fetal-engineering.html</a> ). This report shows NOTHING has been learned from the horrors of the DES and thalidomide experience - thus making WONDER DRUG all the more important for viewing audiences world-wide.Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-76352374718500710322012-05-23T22:13:00.000+10:002012-05-23T22:13:34.492+10:00DES Cancer Cases Go Astray From TGA's Watch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4DaaK8G0VLLSXD3B1QP-REPHmZa9wIOMjsLQBrVeZXy_S8XDAGBtNq5oXeARfcajt4UU5WBCq4GqwlMe79vQPHCR0dYjSKqGfK-YqvBC-LS0ymZAbiIv8tvdd9Uyo_ZU7ffpypWdiJ9d/s1600/mystery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="103" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4DaaK8G0VLLSXD3B1QP-REPHmZa9wIOMjsLQBrVeZXy_S8XDAGBtNq5oXeARfcajt4UU5WBCq4GqwlMe79vQPHCR0dYjSKqGfK-YqvBC-LS0ymZAbiIv8tvdd9Uyo_ZU7ffpypWdiJ9d/s200/mystery.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">DES daughters diagnosed with clear cell adenocarcinoma of the cervix/vagina (CCA) are urged to self-report their cases to the Adverse Medicines Events Line Ph 1300 134237. Also, to obtain forms for self-reporting to the International DES Cancer Registry, call DES Action Australia-NSW Ph 02 98754820. It doesn't matter if you think a health care provider may have already reported your case, because all reports are cross-checked.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">There are many important reasons for self-reporting: </span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Case reports are crucial to knowing the magnitude of the DES exposure problem in our country.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">DES Action Australia-NSW knows of instances where cases have gone unreported by health care providers in Australia.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia's drug watchdog, deemed DES cancer reports unnecessary from 1983 to 2001.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">In TGA documents obtained via FOI by DES Action Australia-NSW there was mention of at least 12 cases of CCA, but these were not reported/investigated for entry into TGA data. Of these cases, one woman had died and at least 5 were children.</span></li>
</ul>Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-70174329893907210192012-05-11T02:22:00.000+10:002012-05-11T02:22:16.924+10:00PIP Inquiry Rejects DES Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLM2a6q_JLbQZ5e3odpKrJo-0r-GrpaDm2EMrQWbkD4RSZ1AdVAFaGAxaN7znWlD5imGV8TEGSZw3Od-Ojnv1ZJ7oTYRIzxJyiHgIZfBkMcFGC7dOVmM537rYGI6Y9ilFVwXtrNT0du7C/s1600/PIPhearing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="127" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLM2a6q_JLbQZ5e3odpKrJo-0r-GrpaDm2EMrQWbkD4RSZ1AdVAFaGAxaN7znWlD5imGV8TEGSZw3Od-Ojnv1ZJ7oTYRIzxJyiHgIZfBkMcFGC7dOVmM537rYGI6Y9ilFVwXtrNT0du7C/s200/PIPhearing.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Yesterday was the Senate Inquiry Hearing about the Poly Implant Prosthese (PIP) breast implant scandal. But the Senate did not want to hear organisation DES Action Australia-NSW's submission. This submission was about the Therapeutic Goods Administration's (TGA) mismanagement of the DES drug disaster and how this correlates to the TGA's current handling of the PIP scandal. In fact the Senate sent the submission back to the organisation, refusing to publish it online and deeming it irrelevant and not addressing the terms of reference.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkDUbi5Vs6u1WGutoYXoNXvtNTHLJVO3ytwFfb0hzFzrzVYl4Y6KCB4JY_wv9tN550Wqmsccu1JUwb28nodX1Hrjw0X6PdApNiIWZ5Yv1rkszeAtySFac7lsgPyolQarBlBQGl8fp4nDLl/s1600/PIPburst.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkDUbi5Vs6u1WGutoYXoNXvtNTHLJVO3ytwFfb0hzFzrzVYl4Y6KCB4JY_wv9tN550Wqmsccu1JUwb28nodX1Hrjw0X6PdApNiIWZ5Yv1rkszeAtySFac7lsgPyolQarBlBQGl8fp4nDLl/s200/PIPburst.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Here are some excerpts from the 9 page submission:<br />
<br />
<i>"The monitoring and follow-up of the DES drug disaster by the TGA has been found wanting, with its initial delay in response and inefficiencies in administering DES cancer reports, sometimes with practices that would appear unorthodox (ie, the non-acceptance of data from 1983-2001)</i>.<i> Lack of interest in investigating and acceptance of its own flawed and incomplete data has meant no further concerted action in continuous monitoring of the DES problem both in Australia and overseas by the TGA. Even where possibilities have existed to improve its own database, the TGA asserts there are restrictions in its role, eg, it is not in its role to cross-check the International DES cancer Registry. There is no feasible explanation for the misleading and inaccurate media release that was issued to the public (and for the government) in 2004. The reliability of its information sources for the 2004 media release should be questioned, including its available resource, RANZCOG, with its specific representative for DES health matters.</i> <i>The TGA's media release in 2004 provides evidence of failure to consult with USA experts in the DES field of research, some of whom are world renowned. Therefore, the TGA's procedures in risk assessment of DES exposed Australians could not be considered comprehensive and effective when only Australian consultative bodies have been used. If the TGA has any procedures in place to communicate with general public in relation to DES, then these have ensured that the Australian public has remained uninformed, ill-informed or has been issued accurate information ineffectively. </i><br />
<br />
<i>In summary, by its actions and inactions, the TGA has stymied the availability of data to the Department of Health and Ageing in relation to the magnitude of the DES problem in Australia. By its actions and inactions, the TGA has stymied the likelihood of the Australian public receiving accurate information about DES. The TGA's response to the DES exposure problem has had an overall effect of decreasing government attention to the DES exposure problem - to the detriment of DES exposed Australians." </i><br />
<br />
<i>"The TGA response to the PIP disaster has been similar to the DES disaster response with self-imposed limitations in the acquisition of risk-assessment information. There has been limited focus on activities by overseas regulators and limited access to available international data in relation to PIP implant rupture rates. Similar to the DES problem, unbalanced and poor quality information to the government has resulted in sub-standard assistance to PIP breast implant recipients. Once again, the TGA's advice regarding a dangerous "therapeutic" good is grossly inadequate and not in line with overseas regulatory bodies and governments. Appropriate government response has been further impeded where there are ongoing problems, eg, surgery difficulties and arising complications when removing ruptured implants, substance leakage even in implants not ruptured. Just as PIP breast implant recipients have been deserted by the TGA and government with "time bombs" in their bodies, DES exposed Australians have similarly been disenfranchised with the "time bomb" effect of DES. Indeed, there may be DES daughters who have succumbed to DES related breast cancer and subsequently become PIP breast implant recipients. These women would have in effect, fallen foul to TGA inefficiency twice over."</i><br />
<br />
<i>"The fact that the TGA is fully funded by fees from the pharmaceutical industry provides explanation for its poor and inhumane responses to serious drug/medical device adverse events. This very obvious conflict of interest and the increase in reported incidents should signal the need for government legislation to ensure that specialist task forces independent of the TGA (with role of consulting with affected stakeholders), are set up to respond to medical device/drug disasters."</i><br />
<br />
Without due consideration of this submission as part of this Inquiry, the shortfalls in TGA responses to any drug/medical device disaster will not be recognised. This is tragic for PIP recipients and all other victims of drug/medical device disasters. <i> </i>Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-9404218952601351462012-04-13T10:13:00.003+10:002012-04-13T10:59:38.533+10:00Global DES Health Survey<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SuJtX5w6mJ22PHV_Nzg_5yuTOqmW4WMPneEQqk_sJhLLbuE_mSuqGzfe2Mge2QJap1ILDov545_Le7oiuRnhZEY7mF75YGa-cxKK6nmJBAnYJ_6FmJX5G3FZBrnNdW77Xx599jGtDDJG/s1600/global+survey.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SuJtX5w6mJ22PHV_Nzg_5yuTOqmW4WMPneEQqk_sJhLLbuE_mSuqGzfe2Mge2QJap1ILDov545_Le7oiuRnhZEY7mF75YGa-cxKK6nmJBAnYJ_6FmJX5G3FZBrnNdW77Xx599jGtDDJG/s400/global+survey.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730672395171488882" border="0" /></a><br />DES Action USA with a researcher has now created an online DES Health History Survey targeting DES exposed individuals world-wide.<br /><br />That's right! This includes Australians!<br /><br />This survey will help identify health issues faced by women who took DES, their DES exposed children, and also their children (DES granddaughters and grandsons). Hopefully, DES Action USA will then be able to share information of any health trends with researchers to enable their follow-up with further study. The survey is not a formal scientific study, and so there is not the usual informed consent process with privacy information.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">The deadline for the completion and return of this survey is JUNE 15th 2012.<br /><br /></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">To get to the survey go to : <a href="http://desaction.org/">http://desaction.org/</a></span></span><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Please share news of this survey with any friends or relatives you know to have been exposed to DES.<br /><br />Let all of our health experience be counted - from everywhere in the world!<br /></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-14819112971159310062012-01-22T17:09:00.016+11:002012-01-23T11:50:05.123+11:00MEDIA RIPPLE EFFECT NEEDED - from UK to OZ<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBVbzyST1gwfP8GVYSoVwqHE7kXtK_fAqzznIKM3OmUcGngoECtHp7XD2uclPss_hBuc9aYMOiryXmHfO19BZOZDjE-v0j7Pwnz98CTMYZBQ913HGhejmJikv6jo1vYXYwPcIHmKlaUQN/s1600/ripple.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 168px; height: 168px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBVbzyST1gwfP8GVYSoVwqHE7kXtK_fAqzznIKM3OmUcGngoECtHp7XD2uclPss_hBuc9aYMOiryXmHfO19BZOZDjE-v0j7Pwnz98CTMYZBQ913HGhejmJikv6jo1vYXYwPcIHmKlaUQN/s400/ripple.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700334982506762626" border="0" /></a>The UK newspaper <span style="font-style: italic;">The Independent</span> (front page) today has raised awareness of the DES exposure problem for the benefit of UK's population. See:<br /><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/thousands-of-women-could-be-at-risk-from-silent-thalidomide-6292889.html">http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/thousands-of-women-could-be-at-risk-from-silent-thalidomide-6292889.html<br /></a><br />This comprehensive article will no doubt encourage many DES-affected in UK, who have so far been unaware of the harm of DES, to seek information in helping prevent unfavourable health outcomes due to DES.<br /><br />This article also highlights the latest US Court victory for DES daughters diagnosed with breast cancer and the possible legal opportunities for compensation by UK women so affected. Pleasingly, the article states that US DES lawyer, Aaron Levine, will travel to the UK in two weeks time to coordinate a hunt for the "DES daughters" in UK who have been unable to get compensation in British courts. There has been UK media follow-up on this: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><a href="http://topnews.us/content/245785-lawyer-hunt-des-daughters-uk">http://topnews.us/content/245785-lawyer-hunt-des-daughters-uk</a><br /><br /></span>This interest by UK media has been sparked by the great work of Domino and supportive partner (Diethylstilbestrol, Journal of a DES Daughter). A ripple effect to reach and activate Australian media is needed...followed by the Australian "hunt for DES daughters".<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">NOTE: DES Action Australia-NSW appeals to all DES affected Australians to contact Australian media, newspapers, radio etc right now to tell them about the attention in US and UK, and the US court victory for DES daughters diagnosed with breast cancer.</span></span>Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-37379873780207287242012-01-20T15:10:00.003+11:002012-01-20T15:48:39.019+11:00Media Release: DRUG COMPANIES ORDERED TO NEGOTIATE SETTLEMENTS IN BREAST CANCER CASE<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQlSDcb-0MYS0K6Yqg4Z6vOMs6ibqZRUTNnprkCuiyntUXwsuidhYjqOIb-4X6laSHn2c7xVDnamv_Pen3z9PYp2FL2sDVjX_hG31xq5bWaRCY8Q1gvzr2XXZpFa7JCNdUYXiT0IFHKPr/s1600/mediareleaselogo.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 234px; height: 154px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQlSDcb-0MYS0K6Yqg4Z6vOMs6ibqZRUTNnprkCuiyntUXwsuidhYjqOIb-4X6laSHn2c7xVDnamv_Pen3z9PYp2FL2sDVjX_hG31xq5bWaRCY8Q1gvzr2XXZpFa7JCNdUYXiT0IFHKPr/s400/mediareleaselogo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699562356961611666" border="0" /></a>Fourteen drug companies in the US have been ordered to begin mediation immediately to compensate 53 women who claim their breast cancers were caused by the anti-miscarriage drug diethylstilboestrol (DES). There are an estimated 740,000 Australian mothers, daughters and sons affected by the drug, which has been found to double a DES daughter's chance of developing breast cancer.<br /><br />DES was manufactured and sold primarily from 1940 to 1971. It has been linked to rare reproductive cancers, infertility and breast cancer in the daughters born to women who were prescribed it. It was made by numerous pharmaceutical firms, including Eli Lilly and Company, which was the largest producer, and E.R. Squibb and Sons, the predecessor to Bristol-Myers Squibb.<br /><br />Carol Devine, coordinator of DES Action group, says this case sets a precedent for people affected by DES in the US and around the world. "We are often asked about legal compensation on DES matters, so this is heartening news for Australian DES daughters who have had breast cancer diagnosis,"she says.<br /><br />"There has already been successful litigation in 2008 by an Australian DES daughter in US court against DES drug companies for her diagnosed clear cell adenocarcinoma which left her infertile after a radical hysterectomy."<br /><br />In agreement with DES Action USA and the College Statement by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Carol Devine urges DES daughters to be aware of their increased breast cancer risk once they hit forty and to have annual breast screening.<br /><br />"This ruling against the drug companies is a wake-up call for the government to promote DES information directly to Australians in public health programs, especially since the majority of DES-affected are still unaware of DES and the associated health care they need."<br /><br />Jackie White, of Centerburg, OH, is one of the plaintiffs in the case. She, like the other so-called DES daughters, was exposed to DES before birth. "I am just over the moon at this decision," she says. "It is time for the drug companies who harmed us to be held accountable for this bad drug."<br /><br />Washington DC Attorney Aaron Levine called upon a team of expert witnesses including the Chair of Harvard's Department of Epidemiology, and other scientists from academic institutions such as Georgetown University and the University of Paris to support the reliability of their experts and their opinions that prenatal DES exposure substantially increases the risk of breast cancer in DES daughters over the age of forty.<br /><br />For more information about DES contact DES Action Australia-NSW by phoning 02 98754820 or visiting www.des.blogspot.com<br /><br />-End-<br />For more information contact:<br />Carol Devine, DES Action Australia-NSW<br />E: c_devine@bigpond.net.au<br />P: (02) 98754820Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-76765577172934070532012-01-03T22:28:00.004+11:002012-01-03T23:22:52.700+11:00Our DES Awareness Week - a response<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm5qpVfZdSAVkDKHL5r8ibHMw3Vc8E8V7xHc6diuYA_OA3oqAtT4deAdI3JDkmyQiJ-C3233wS1MPGJGxYHIUNWSUP0OzsGkz2WtWnfaIs6qU48H0s2zxRLfg3lywBz__CS1fwIbO75pzn/s1600/awareness+week+article.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 218px; height: 215px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm5qpVfZdSAVkDKHL5r8ibHMw3Vc8E8V7xHc6diuYA_OA3oqAtT4deAdI3JDkmyQiJ-C3233wS1MPGJGxYHIUNWSUP0OzsGkz2WtWnfaIs6qU48H0s2zxRLfg3lywBz__CS1fwIbO75pzn/s400/awareness+week+article.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5693366538038270658" border="0" /></a>The Daily Telegraph published a controversial article about Events Calendars by Melissa Matheson last week, "What say we call it a day" (31/12/11) with the subtitled comment - "The calendar is now jam-packed with worthy and not so worthy causes - and there's a ribbon for every one."<br /><br />It was a shame that our DES Awareness Week June 1-7 did not even rate a mention, as this would have fulfilled our whole aim - to raise awareness of DES. Had it been mentioned, it would have certainly been categorised as a worthy cause. However, the fact it did not rate a mention may well demonstrate the stiff competition DES Action Australia-NSW as a marginalised unfunded group is up against with other campaigners, armed to the teeth with expensive PR company back-up.<br /><br />The article had a sweeping statement that campaigners want your attention and, naturally, money. Our campaign has never asked people for money, but instead directly offers Australians information to help prevent cancer fatalities and reproductive health complications - vital health information as a result of a drug disaster that the government currently refuses to provide Australians in public health programs. With the sheer number of calendar campaigns all clamouring for attention, Matheson raises the issue of public exhaustion trying to keep up and the risk that public empathy may turn to apathy. It is hoped this never happens. The response to DES Awareness campaigns over the last seven years has shown the Australian public to be extremely appreciative of the information offered - information they would not have otherwise found.<br /><br />Events Calendars open a window of excellent opportunity for marginalised organisations with worthy causes. In fair play, media should be focusing equally on those campaigners doing it tough with worthwhile causes. Indeed, a follow-up article about the experience of campaigners, like DES Action Australia-NSW, doing the hard grind without any ribbon and stifled by the PR power of larger campaigners, would be a positive move for public good. Focusing on the worthy campaigns at the fringe would bring something new to many people and simultaneously do justice to the underlying principles of Events Calendars.Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-67940563096377413072011-12-06T11:53:00.002+11:002011-12-06T12:08:17.429+11:00TWITTER ABOUT DES<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSB7hVWkIwwNQzU79AcfNYsWK3iKYNGkSjeUPZOoZ53pQrrIIb3NO9We6e94p6e5-h_yEX6QMowecF-NRVJqbce1_KFjMoCM3bEz4JrOQKIvoorLmGuKc6NAPTVYg6r7CFvXnWqT4VplL5/s1600/twitterlogo.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 185px; height: 185px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSB7hVWkIwwNQzU79AcfNYsWK3iKYNGkSjeUPZOoZ53pQrrIIb3NO9We6e94p6e5-h_yEX6QMowecF-NRVJqbce1_KFjMoCM3bEz4JrOQKIvoorLmGuKc6NAPTVYg6r7CFvXnWqT4VplL5/s400/twitterlogo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5682813212674958210" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Looking for a bit of news on the side about DES?<br /><br />Go to TWITTER @DESAustraliaNSWCarol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-89797569230550782242011-11-02T00:25:00.003+11:002011-11-02T13:29:55.497+11:00MAKING OUR VOICES HEARD<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKECRbgEvCI2mtsn_McH1IcoDC2B1pqGfkVDBpT167ggiwljF-lOwUrRa8VgZDer0Mm_6BUVO1KcJjrv9flT5Iv58DDOOaA5wPZLYwqrKS0WSXj2Ymxh2kMz6U89_VVhOvLjCEN5EadJVV/s1600/healthvoices1.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 146px; height: 206px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKECRbgEvCI2mtsn_McH1IcoDC2B1pqGfkVDBpT167ggiwljF-lOwUrRa8VgZDer0Mm_6BUVO1KcJjrv9flT5Iv58DDOOaA5wPZLYwqrKS0WSXj2Ymxh2kMz6U89_VVhOvLjCEN5EadJVV/s400/healthvoices1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5670018283274467762" border="0" /></a>The Consumers Health Forum of Australia's October issue of<span style="font-style: italic;"> Health Voices</span> has an article about DES on page 10 & 11. The article <span style="font-style: italic;">When medicines harm: the DES experience and how we can avoid it happening again </span>gives a chilling account of the DES story, the lessons from the tragedy and the Australian response in the aftermath.<br /><br />Scroll down to page 10 & 11 at:<br /><br /><a href="https://www.chf.org.au/pdfs/chf/Health-Voices-October-2011.pdf">https://www.chf.org.au/pdfs/chf/Health-Voices-October-2011.pdf</a>Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-17518384363493903922011-10-27T16:03:00.006+11:002011-11-23T10:06:32.268+11:0040th ANNIVERSARY OF THE DES CANCER FINDING<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQdSP_E8ii6UeLpijjUSGs56AgBcPBHildGgSQ8rCg16k0DmhHcrRGFkjgZUwzdfWNXJB8c6hp6zQxe0UctsMPbV_5A7nOHPWX2PUWtjbLIjBWM_l98kUpCMskZz2TuG1AGzNyjGAFue-/s1600/DrArthurHerbst.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 197px; height: 147px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQdSP_E8ii6UeLpijjUSGs56AgBcPBHildGgSQ8rCg16k0DmhHcrRGFkjgZUwzdfWNXJB8c6hp6zQxe0UctsMPbV_5A7nOHPWX2PUWtjbLIjBWM_l98kUpCMskZz2TuG1AGzNyjGAFue-/s400/DrArthurHerbst.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668039718613333090" border="0" /></a>On You Tube US researcher, Dr Arthur Herbst provides a most interesting account of the finding of the DES link to cancer. This footage commemorates Arthur L. Herbst and the 40th anniversary of his landmark DES paper. Your doctor might also be interested in this. Here is the link:<br /><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.youtube.com/watch?v=doSpbfDCHJC"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doSpbfDcJHc">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doSpbfDcJHc</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE BIG PICNIC.....<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">A picnic is planned to help commemorate.<br /><a href="http://desdaughter.wordpress.com/2011/11/22/des-australia-social-event/">http://desdaughter.wordpress.com/2011/11/22/des-australia-social-event/</a><br /><br /><br /></span></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /></span>Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2471361847515108622.post-82889830314915799032011-10-26T23:30:00.007+11:002011-10-27T01:03:07.119+11:00News to take to your Doctor<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2UzeTcpiuarItPXim3VkSE43hTKn36pIxKyhYWxS6qRrXgbF9lKMa0FQBiRLGRIgV-5niDx97WnnkgbF_AxF4yj2ryQbsY8OrM_lAO22K0zVY8Z9soEgTnaSebUNzj7R3-Mv1dVemFGl/s1600/tellDoc.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 172px; height: 115px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2UzeTcpiuarItPXim3VkSE43hTKn36pIxKyhYWxS6qRrXgbF9lKMa0FQBiRLGRIgV-5niDx97WnnkgbF_AxF4yj2ryQbsY8OrM_lAO22K0zVY8Z9soEgTnaSebUNzj7R3-Mv1dVemFGl/s400/tellDoc.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5667793797093779874" border="0" /></a>In the October 6 <span style="font-style: italic;">New England Journal of Medicine </span>(NEJM) US Epidemiologist, Dr Robert Hoover and his colleagues estimated the absolute risks of 12 health outcomes associated with prenatal exposure to DES, including certain cancers and reproductive problems such as infertility, ectopic pregnancies and preterm births.<br /><br />Your doctor may be interested in:<br /><ul><li><span style="font-style: italic;">After DES: Tracking the Harms of a Prenatal Drug Exposure, </span>NCI Cancer Bulletin, Oct 18, <a href="http://tiny.cc/h2ysv">http://tiny.cc/h2ysv</a></li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-style: italic;">The DES Story: Lessons Learned, </span>Utube at <a href="http://tiny.cc/ji9f4"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">http://tiny.cc/ji9f4</span></a> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span> Dr Robert Hoover discusses the new study and points out that in his experience, young doctors and medical students are unaware of DES.</li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-style: italic;">DES exposure leads to many morbidities, </span>Australian Doctor, October 14, page 1.</li></ul><ul><li><span style="font-style: italic;">DES cancer link sparks campaign call, </span>Sydney Morning Herald, October 6, <a href="http://tiny.cc/8rcgb">http://tiny.cc/8rcgb</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/tiny.cc/8rcgb"></a></li></ul>Carol Devinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00326123531527728288noreply@blogger.com0