Breast Cancer and Oral Contraceptives: Results from a Multinational Study
Author Information
Author(s): D.B. Thomas, E.A. Noonan
Primary Institution: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
Hypothesis
Does the use of combined oral contraceptives increase the risk of breast cancer in women?
Conclusion
The study found a slight increase in breast cancer risk associated with the use of oral contraceptives, particularly in younger women and those who used them for longer durations.
Supporting Evidence
- Women who ever used oral contraceptives had a relative risk of 1.15 for breast cancer.
- Risk was highest in recent and current users of oral contraceptives.
- Findings were consistent across various countries with differing economic statuses.
Takeaway
This study looked at many women to see if taking birth control pills makes them more likely to get breast cancer. It found a small chance that it might, especially for younger women.
Methodology
A hospital-based case-control study was conducted with 2,116 women diagnosed with breast cancer and 12,077 controls from 12 centers in 10 countries.
Potential Biases
No single source of bias or confounding was identified, but potential biases related to medical care access and recall bias were acknowledged.
Limitations
The study may not account for all potential confounding factors and was limited to hospital-based cases.
Participant Demographics
Women aged 15-49 from various countries, including developed and developing nations.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.22
Confidence Interval
(1.02, 1.29)
Statistical Significance
p=0.22
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website