The data are insufficient to draw any conclusions about current use of oral contraceptives.
Data from the New Hampshire statewide surveillance system show an increase in the incidence of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) between 1979–1980 and 1993–1994. Incidence grew by 235% in men and 350% in women. Oral contraceptives (OCs) may increase the risk for SCC, perhaps because they are photosensitizing agents or may contain growth-promoting hormones that contribute to cellular dysregulation. Investigators compared OC use in 261 women with SCC and 298 controls, and performed a statistical analysis adjusted for age, number of severe sunburns, number of sunbathing events, and skin pigmentation. Level of education, marital status, body mass index, and parity were also assessed as possible confounders.
The SCC patients had a slightly higher fre…