Answers
02/18/1992

<TITLE>FDA SETS UP TOLL-FREE PHONE LINE ON BREAST IMPLANTS</TITLE>
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NOTE TO CORRESPONDENTS                       Susan Cruzan or Sharon Snider
Feb. 18, 1992                                (301) 443-3285

             FDA SETS UP TOLL-FREE PHONE LINE ON BREAST IMPLANTS

    FDA is establishing a toll-free telephone line to provide FDA             
information materials to consumers on breast implants.  It will begin         
operating Feb. 18, 1992, and will remain in service for as long as public     
inquiries on the implants continue at a high level.  The number is            
1-800-532-4440.
    FDA has received thousands of phone calls and letters from women on this  
subject since Jan. 6, when the agency announced a moratorium on the further   
use of silicone gel-filled breast implants.  By using the toll-free number,   
women can receive up-to-date, accurate information materials on these         
products and their regulatory status.
    The line will be in service Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 7       
p.m., Eastern Standard Time.  After operating hours, callers may leave their  
name and address, and the written information will be mailed to them.
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