The British Medical Journal (BMJ) has issued a warning that hip replacement patients may have been exposed to high levels of the heavy metals cobalt and chromium, causing adverse health effects including genetic damage and destruction of muscle and bone.
The warning has been issued following an investigation by the BMJ in conjunction with the BBC, which found that metal on metal hip implants can release cobalt and chromium ions into patients' bodies. The BMJ claims that manufacturers and regulators have failed to adequately protect patient safety from the implants, despite mounting evidence of risk.