Oral Contraceptive Pills Usage
is common in reproductive age women, but despite extensive study, uncertainties remain regarding the association between the use of hormonal contraception and risk of breast cancer.
In 2018, a study
in the NEJM reported an increased risk of breast cancer with current OC use after as a little as 5 years and remaining for atleast 5 years after discontinuation.
A Large, prospective study of 3.5 million women –
collected between the ages of 50 – 71 by the NIH – ARRP Diet and Health Study cohort analyzed information on the:
- Duration of OC use
- Demographic Characteristics
- Family History of Cancer
- Lifestyle Factors (smoking, weight alcohol use and exercise
Study Results:
Long-term OC use reduced OVARIAN CANCER by 40% and ENDOMETRIAL CANCER by 34%
However,
There was no significant association between OC use and breast cancer in this study.
except for long-term users who also smoked had a significant increase risk of 21% for breast cancer.
Smoking increases the risk of breast cancer for OC users?
This study helps to inform our counselling of patients about the risk and benefits of OC users.
