Des Exposure Linked To Higher Cancer Risk

If you were born between 1938 and 1971, or if you were pregnant during that time, you may have been exposed to the drug diethylstilbestrol, or DES.

DES is a synthetic hormone that was widely prescribed to pregnant women to prevent miscarriage. Mothers and children who were exposed to the drug may experience serious health problems. Women who took DES during pregnancy have a small increase in breast-cancer risk.

The National Cancer Institute has produced a series of free booklets designed to answer questions and provide resources. For list of titles or to order, call DES Action: 800-DES-9288.