What is the DES scandal and why are victims demanding a public inquiry?

The DES scandal involves victims of the pregnancy drug diethylstilbestrol (DES), which was prescribed from the 1940s to 1970s and is linked to cancers and reproductive issues. Victims are demanding a public inquiry to address the historical use and ongoing impact of the drug.

What does DES Justice UK want the government to do?

DES Justice UK is urging the Health Secretary to launch a public inquiry into the DES scandal and to establish an NHS screening program to identify individuals at risk from exposure to the drug.

What are the health risks associated with DES exposure?

DES exposure is linked to clear cell adenocarcinoma (a cancer of the cervix and vagina), as well as other cancers like breast and pancreatic cancer. It has also caused infertility and reproductive abnormalities in descendants of women who took the drug.

Home / Health / UK DES victims urge public inquiry for historic drug harm

UK DES victims urge public inquiry for historic drug harm

9 Feb

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Summary

DES victims to meet Health Secretary Wes Streeting for inquiry
Campaign group seeks NHS screening for DES exposure risks
DES, a pregnancy drug from 1940-70s, linked to cancers and infertility

UK DES victims urge public inquiry for historic drug harm

Victims of the pregnancy drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) are scheduled to meet with Health Secretary Wes Streeting. The group, DES Justice UK (DJUK), is advocating for a public inquiry into the widespread use of the drug, which was prescribed to approximately 300,000 pregnant women between the 1940s and 1970s.

DJUK, comprising over 500 members including women and their descendants, also seeks the establishment of an NHS screening program. This program aims to identify individuals who may face health risks, such as infertility, reproductive abnormalities, and an increased likelihood of certain cancers, due to DES exposure. The drug was linked to clear cell adenocarcinoma in 1971, leading to warnings in the US, though it continued to be used in Europe until 1978.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting previously apologized to victims, acknowledging that 'the state got it wrong.' He urged those affected to consult their GPs. Susie Martin, whose mother took DES, shared her extensive personal suffering, including numerous operations and ongoing health anxieties. She emphasized the need for concrete action beyond meetings, specifically a screening program and a full statutory public inquiry.