The link between oral contraceptives and cancer

Filed in archive News on July 30, 2005

A study revealed that oral contraceptives may have more cancer risk than originally thought. Certainly more information is needed before making any further recommendations:

A review of research by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in Lyon, France, part of the World Health Organization, concluded that oral contraceptives protected against some types of cancer but might trigger others.

Previously, liver cancer was indicated as a risk for women who take the pill, IARC said. But the latest research shows cervical and breast cancer are also possible risks.

The pill can protect against endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer, IARC said, calling for more research to determine whether the total net benefits caused by the protective and carcinogenic effects were positive or negative.

"It is possible that the overall net public health outcome may be beneficial, but a rigorous analysis is required to demonstrate this," the agency said.

("New study widens pill risks, benefits for cancer", Reuters, Jul.29)