DANGER IMPLANT PROBED - MAD COW

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DANGER IMPLANT PROBED - MAD COW
Jan 30 2005
Heather Greenaway


A PROBE has been launched after fears that cosmetic implants could trigger mad cow disease.

The Government has launched an investigation after claims that implants in lips and cheeks could trigger Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease.

The move follows a surge in demand after the BBC's Weakest Link host, Anne Robinson, admitted she had plastic surgery.

The Government's medical scientists are to examine the possibility that tissue implants, such as collagen, could transmit the human form of CJD.

Although no evidence has been discovered, Government scientists believe there may be a risk.

A study of aesthetic fillers, which are often made from human or bovine tissue, found samples containing bits of dead bodies and birds.

Rogue

The investigation is part of an overhaul of the cosmetic treatments industry, designed to root out the growing number of cowboy surgeons.

Some cosmetic procedures are now available at hairdressing and beauty salons.

Fears over the increase in botched operations and treatments has prompted the probe.

Doctors will have to tell patients if they have no cosmetic surgery qualifications.

There will also be tighter controls on laser treatment for skin blemishes.

Under new rules, rogue clinics will be shut and quack doctors prosecuted.

Several have also been illegally advertising Botox, which is a prescription drug.

Chief Medical Officer Sir Liam Donaldson said: 'The number of people who had cosmetic surgery last year rose by 50 per cent.

'Standards in the cosmetic treatment field must be as high as other areas of health care.'