Diethylstilbestrol (DES), a drug frequently prescribed to pregnant women following WWII to prevent miscarriages and dry up breast milk, has been linked to causing rare cancers, miscarriages and reproductive issues in the women who were prescribed it.

In the decades since Diethylstilbestrol was banned in the UK, it has come to light that the damage caused by this dangerous drug didn’t stop there. The children of the mothers who were taking DES have also experienced serious health issues including birth defects, rare cancers, infertility, premature birth and more.

Dr Ahmed Talaat, a Gynaecological Cancer Surgeon in Plymouth, reports that the risk of cancer for women whose mother was prescribed DES during pregnancy almost doubles.

We’re calling for the UK government to act. There needs to be a full-scale public inquiry into how a drug this harmful was handed out so freely and to help understand the scale of the damage caused. We’re also calling for a compensation scheme for those impacted by this drug, for better training and public awareness of the lasting impacts of Diethylstilbestrol, and a comprehensive cancer screening programme. If you have been impacted by DES, whether directly or indirectly, we encourage you to join our campaign for government action by filling in our questionnaire.

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What is DES?   

Diethylstilbestrol (DES) is a synthetic oestrogen that was widely prescribed to pregnant women from the 1940s to the 1970s. DES was initially hailed as a “wonder drug” for pregnancy, it was even recommended for routine use in all pregnancies to promote healthier, bigger babies.  

Despite early warnings and evidence showing DES did not prevent miscarriages and caused cancer in animals, pharmaceutical companies continued to market it aggressively. Doctors worldwide kept prescribing it through the 1960s and 70s, exposing millions of women and their unborn children to its harmful effects.

What Are the Long-Term Health Effects of DES? 

The legacy of DES spans three generations: the women who took the drug (DES mothers), their children exposed in utero (DES daughters and DES sons), and potentially their grandchildren (DES grandchildren).  

DES mothers face an increased risk of breast cancer. DES daughters have a higher risk of developing clear cell adenocarcinoma (CCA) of the vagina and cervix, as well as reproductive tract abnormalities, infertility, and pregnancy complications. DES sons experience genital defects and potentially elevated cancer and cardiovascular risks.

The Need for Government Accountability

Despite the devastating effects of DES, the response in the UK has been relatively limited.  

Unlike in the US, there have been no successful class-action lawsuits regarding DES, and very few individual lawsuits on record. The UK government has never issued a formal apology or public health campaign for DES victims.

At Broudie Jackson Canter, we believe the government must take responsibility for the DES tragedy. This could include:

• A Public Inquiry: Conducting a thorough investigation into the DES tragedy, identifying the extent of harm, and establishing a framework for support and compensation.

• A Compensation fund: Establishing a fund to provide financial compensation to DES victims, similar to the Thalidomide compensation scheme.

Clare Fletcher Partner in our Major Inquests & Inquires team at Broudie Jackson Canter, commented on the scandal, she said:  

It is time for this scandal to be heard.  To be talked about and for action to be taken. For too long now, this has been swept under the carpet and dismissed.  It is time for the Truth, time for Justice and time for Accountability.

Those affected by DES need to understand what the Government knew about the harmful effects of this drug, and what they plan to do to right the wrong, both for those already affected, and for those who are still at risk."

Looking Towards the Future and Fighting for those affected by DES

At Broudie Jackson Canter, we are not just legal representatives but also dedicated advocates for meaningful change. Our committed team will provide comprehensive support, offering a compassionate and understanding approach whilst tirelessly pursuing justice for you.

We stand in solidarity with all those affected by DES, demanding truth, justice, and accountability. It is crucial for the Government to acknowledge the harm inflicted upon generations and offer a path for redress and support.

If you believe you’ve been affected by DES  you can register your interest in the DES Campaign UK here.