Use of Oral Contraceptives and Cancer Risks: New Data

Analyses of a large U.K. database clarify how OC use affects the risks for breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers.

A common concern among women is that hormonal contraception could increase cancer risk. While studies have consistently found that use of oral contraceptives (OCs) reduces risks for ovarian and endometrial cancers, findings regarding breast cancer have been uncertain and controversial. To assess associations between OC use and risks for these cancers, investigators used data from the UK Biobank, which recruited a large cohort of individuals between 2006 and 2010, as well as from national databases.

Among over 250,000 women born between 1939 and 1970, more than 80% had used or were currently using OCs. In analyses adjusted for 10 parameters, ever users of OCs had significantly lower risks for ovarian (odds ratio, 0.72) and endometrial cancers…

Reviewing Author

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Use of Oral Contraceptives and Cancer Risks: New Data

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Reviewing Author