31.   The pact did not require women to prove that implants had caused their problems, only that a doctor had diagnosed an illness.

32.   The woman, Nancy Duke, alleged that the implants caused her health problems.

33.   There is no dispute that implants can cause problems like hardening of breasts and that removal of implants can cause disfigurement.

34.   They say silicone breast implants are causing a new and ill-defined disease that has not been detected in epidemiological studies.

35.   Those who have filed claims say that ruptured or leaking implants have caused a variety of cancers and auto-immune diseases.

36.   Those who say that the implants cause disease cite evidence of a different sort.

37.   While there is little dispute that the implants can cause local inflammation and scar tissue buildup, implant manufacturers have rejected links between their products and more serious illnesses.

38.   But implants can cause certain side effects, and over time require repeat surgeries to replace deflated implants or remove painful scar tissue.

39.   Dr. Ladner also claims the implants caused her to develop lupus.

40.   Lawsuits by thousands of women have alleged that silicone and other implants caused health problems, including pain, deformities and immune-system illnesses.