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In Vivo and Ex Vivo Approaches to Study Ovarian Cancer Metastatic Colonization of Milky Spot Structures in Peritoneal Adipose
Published on: October 14, 2015
[Does hormonal contraception increase the risk for tumors?]
Wilhelm Braendle1, Herbert Kuhl, Alfred Mueck
1Poliklinik für gynäkologische Endokrinologie und Reproduktionsmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf. wilhelm.braendle@googlemail.de
Therapeutische Umschau. Revue Therapeutique
|January 31, 2009
Summary
Oral hormonal contraceptives (OC) offer non-contraceptive benefits, including reduced risks for benign and malignant tumors like breast, endometrial, and colorectal cancers. They also alleviate endometriosis symptoms like dysmenorrhea.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Oral hormonal contraceptives (OC) are widely used for their contraceptive effects.
- Emerging evidence suggests significant non-contraceptive health benefits associated with OC use.
Purpose:
- To comprehensively review the non-contraceptive benefits of oral hormonal contraceptives, focusing on their impact on various benign and malignant tumors.
- To evaluate the association between OC use and conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, and specific cancer types.
Summary:
- OC use is linked to a diminished risk of benign breast tumors, uterine fibroids, and ovarian cysts.
- While not directly improving endometriosis, OC effectively decrease associated dysmenorrhea.
- Modern low-dose OCs do not elevate risks for liver adenomas/carcinomas or melanoma.
- Current data indicate no increased risk for breast carcinoma in OC users; long-term use correlates with decreased endometrial and colorectal carcinoma risks.
- OCs do not directly influence cervical cancer but may indirectly impact it via behavioral changes. No increased risk for vulvar or vaginal carcinoma is observed.
Impact:
- Highlights the multifaceted health advantages of oral contraceptives beyond contraception.
- Provides crucial information for healthcare providers and patients regarding the oncological and gynecological implications of OC use.
- Supports informed decision-making for individuals considering or currently using oral hormonal contraceptives.
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