I saw a documentary on the drug DES.
Diethylstilbestrol is a synthetic form of estrogen. From about 1940 to 1971, it was given to pregnant women in the mistaken belief it would reduce the risk of pregnancy complications and losses. In 1971, researchers found that women who were exposed to DES before they were born are more likely to get cancer and all sorts of other health problems. These women are called “DES Daughters“. Later studies have shown side effects for men exposed who are called “DES Sons“. The Food and Drug Administration issued a warning but did not ban the drug. DES third generation are the children of men and women who were exposed to DES in utero; thus, they are also the grandchildren of women who were given DES during pregnancy. Studies of the third generation are important because DES might be associated with epigenetic changes.
Just like the Post Finasteride Syndrome Foundation, DES victims have their own group, DES Action. There have been lawsuits and settlements.
I hadn’t heard anything about this drug and its disastrous effects and while you might think this case is totally different from ours, i think there is a frightening resemblance. I think this is an interesting case, not only because this drug is older than propecia, but because of the transgenerational effects of a hormonal drug. It is my biggest fear that ‘propecia children’ might have a syndrome of their own.
Any views on this case are much appreciated.