Skip to main content
Top
Published in: Drug Safety 10/2001

01-08-2001 | Review Article

Oral Contraceptives and Cancer

An Update

Authors: Dr Carlo La Vecchia, Andrea Altieri, Silvia Franceschi, Alessandra Tavani

Published in: Drug Safety | Issue 10/2001

Login to get access

Abstract

Most up-to-date information on oral contraceptives (OCs) and breast cancer risk comes from a collaborative re-analysis of individual data on 53 297 cases and 100 239 controls. It is now established that there is a moderately increased breast cancer risk among current OC users, which tends to level off in the few years after stopping use. With regard to cervical cancer, OC use has been found to be associated with increased risk in human papilloma virus—positive women. With reference to the well known protective effects of OCs against endometrial carcinogenesis, additional information has suggested a consistent protection across types of OCs used. Further data on ovarian cancer confirm that the protection of OCs is long lasting, and may well be observed 15 to 20 years after stopping use. Several studies have suggested an inverse relationship between use of OCs and risk of colorectal cancer, and in a meta-analysis of published data the pooled relative risk of colorectal cancer for OC ever-use was 0.82 (95% confidence interval 0.74 to 0.97). There was no association with duration of use. The increased risk for hepatocellular carcinoma in the absence of hepatitis B viruses is the only established evidence of a direct association between OC use and cancer risk, which led an International Agency for Research on Cancer Working Group to classify OCs as carcinogenic to humans in 1998.
Literature
1.
go back to reference Beral V, Hermon C, Kay C, et al. Mortality associated with oral contraceptive use: 25 year follow up of cohort of 46000 women from Royal College of General Practitioners’ oral contraception study. BMJ 1999; 318: 96–100PubMed Beral V, Hermon C, Kay C, et al. Mortality associated with oral contraceptive use: 25 year follow up of cohort of 46000 women from Royal College of General Practitioners’ oral contraception study. BMJ 1999; 318: 96–100PubMed
2.
go back to reference Chaouki N, Bosch FX, Munoz N, et al. The viral origin of cervical cancer in Rabat, Morocco. Int J Cancer 1998; 75: 546–54PubMed Chaouki N, Bosch FX, Munoz N, et al. The viral origin of cervical cancer in Rabat, Morocco. Int J Cancer 1998; 75: 546–54PubMed
3.
go back to reference Moreno V, Bosch FX, Munoz N, et al. The risk of cervical cancer in relation to hormonal contraceptives in women that are HPV-DNA carriers. Pooled analysis of the IARC multicentric case-control study [abstract 61]. Proceedings of the 18th International Papillomavirus Conference; 2000 Jul 25; Barcelona. 23–28, 129 Moreno V, Bosch FX, Munoz N, et al. The risk of cervical cancer in relation to hormonal contraceptives in women that are HPV-DNA carriers. Pooled analysis of the IARC multicentric case-control study [abstract 61]. Proceedings of the 18th International Papillomavirus Conference; 2000 Jul 25; Barcelona. 23–28, 129
4.
go back to reference Lacey Jr JV, Brinton LA, Abbas FM, et al. Oral contraceptives as risk factors for cervical adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1999; 8: 1079–85PubMed Lacey Jr JV, Brinton LA, Abbas FM, et al. Oral contraceptives as risk factors for cervical adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1999; 8: 1079–85PubMed
5.
go back to reference Thomas DB, Ray RM, The World Health Organization Collaborative Study of Neoplasia and Steroid Contraceptives. Oral contraceptives and invasive adenocarcinomas and adenosquamous carcinomas of the uterine cervix. Am J Epidemiol 1996; 144: 281–9PubMed Thomas DB, Ray RM, The World Health Organization Collaborative Study of Neoplasia and Steroid Contraceptives. Oral contraceptives and invasive adenocarcinomas and adenosquamous carcinomas of the uterine cervix. Am J Epidemiol 1996; 144: 281–9PubMed
6.
go back to reference Parazzini F, Chatenoud L, La Vecchia C, et al. Time since last use of oral contraceptives and risk of invasive cervical cancer. Eur J Cancer 1998; 34: 884–8PubMed Parazzini F, Chatenoud L, La Vecchia C, et al. Time since last use of oral contraceptives and risk of invasive cervical cancer. Eur J Cancer 1998; 34: 884–8PubMed
7.
go back to reference Fernandez E, La Vecchia C, Franceschi S, et al. Oral contraceptive use and risk of colorectal cancer. Epidemiology 1998; 9: 295–300PubMed Fernandez E, La Vecchia C, Franceschi S, et al. Oral contraceptive use and risk of colorectal cancer. Epidemiology 1998; 9: 295–300PubMed
8.
go back to reference Fernandez E, Bosetti C, La Vecchia C, et al. Sex differences in colorectal cancer mortality in Europe, 1955-1966. Eur J Cancer Prev 2000; 9; 99–104PubMed Fernandez E, Bosetti C, La Vecchia C, et al. Sex differences in colorectal cancer mortality in Europe, 1955-1966. Eur J Cancer Prev 2000; 9; 99–104PubMed
9.
go back to reference Beard CM, Hartmann LC, Atkinson EJ, et al. The epidemiology of ovarian cancer: A population-based study in Olmsted County, Minnesota, 1935-1991. Ann Epidemiol 2000; 10: 14–23PubMed Beard CM, Hartmann LC, Atkinson EJ, et al. The epidemiology of ovarian cancer: A population-based study in Olmsted County, Minnesota, 1935-1991. Ann Epidemiol 2000; 10: 14–23PubMed
10.
go back to reference Ness RB, Grisso JA, Klapper J, et al. And the SHARE Study Group. Risk of ovarian cancer in relation to estrogen and progestin dose and use characteristics of oral contraceptives. Am J Epidemiol 2000; 152: 233–4PubMed Ness RB, Grisso JA, Klapper J, et al. And the SHARE Study Group. Risk of ovarian cancer in relation to estrogen and progestin dose and use characteristics of oral contraceptives. Am J Epidemiol 2000; 152: 233–4PubMed
11.
go back to reference Greggi S, Parazzini F, Paratore MP, et al. Risk factors for ovarian cancer in central Italy. Gynecol Oncol 2000; 79: 50–4PubMed Greggi S, Parazzini F, Paratore MP, et al. Risk factors for ovarian cancer in central Italy. Gynecol Oncol 2000; 79: 50–4PubMed
12.
go back to reference Narod DA, Risch H, Moslehi R, et al. For the Hereditary Ovarian Cancer Clinical Study Group. Oral contraceptives and the risk of hereditary ovarian cancer. N Engl J Med 1998; 339: 424–8PubMed Narod DA, Risch H, Moslehi R, et al. For the Hereditary Ovarian Cancer Clinical Study Group. Oral contraceptives and the risk of hereditary ovarian cancer. N Engl J Med 1998; 339: 424–8PubMed
13.
go back to reference Chiaffarino F, Pelucchi C, Parazzini F, et al. Reproductive and hormonal factors and ovarian cancer. Ann Oncol 2001; 12: 337–41PubMed Chiaffarino F, Pelucchi C, Parazzini F, et al. Reproductive and hormonal factors and ovarian cancer. Ann Oncol 2001; 12: 337–41PubMed
14.
go back to reference Weiderpass E, Adami H-O, Baron JA, et al. Use of oral contraceptives and endometrial cancer risk (Sweden). Cancer Causes Control 1999; 10: 277–84PubMed Weiderpass E, Adami H-O, Baron JA, et al. Use of oral contraceptives and endometrial cancer risk (Sweden). Cancer Causes Control 1999; 10: 277–84PubMed
15.
go back to reference McCann SE, Freudenheim JL, Marshall JR, et al. Diet in the epidemiology of endometrial cancer in Western New York (United States). Cancer Causes Control 2000; 11: 965–74PubMed McCann SE, Freudenheim JL, Marshall JR, et al. Diet in the epidemiology of endometrial cancer in Western New York (United States). Cancer Causes Control 2000; 11: 965–74PubMed
16.
go back to reference Collaborative MILTS Project Team. Oral contraceptives and liver cancer. Contraception 1997; 56: 275–84 Collaborative MILTS Project Team. Oral contraceptives and liver cancer. Contraception 1997; 56: 275–84
17.
go back to reference La Vecchia C, Ron E, Franceschi S, et al. A pooled analysis of case-control studies of thyroid cancer. III: oral contraceptives, menopausal replacement therapy and other female hormones. Cancer Causes Control 1999; 10: 157–66PubMed La Vecchia C, Ron E, Franceschi S, et al. A pooled analysis of case-control studies of thyroid cancer. III: oral contraceptives, menopausal replacement therapy and other female hormones. Cancer Causes Control 1999; 10: 157–66PubMed
18.
go back to reference International Agency for Research on Cancer. Monographs on the evaluation of the carcinogenic risks to humans. Vol. 72. Hormonal contraception and post-menopausal hormonal therapy. Lyon: International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1999 International Agency for Research on Cancer. Monographs on the evaluation of the carcinogenic risks to humans. Vol. 72. Hormonal contraception and post-menopausal hormonal therapy. Lyon: International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1999
19.
go back to reference La Vecchia C, Tavani A, Franceschi S, et al. Oral contraceptives and cancer: a review of the evidence. Drug Saf 1996; 14: 260–72PubMed La Vecchia C, Tavani A, Franceschi S, et al. Oral contraceptives and cancer: a review of the evidence. Drug Saf 1996; 14: 260–72PubMed
20.
go back to reference Collaborative Group on Hormonal Factors in Breast Cancer. Breast cancer and hormonal contraceptives: collaborative reanalysis of individual data on 53297 women with breast cancer and 100239 women without breast cancer from 54 epidemiological studies. Lancet 1996; 347: 1713–27 Collaborative Group on Hormonal Factors in Breast Cancer. Breast cancer and hormonal contraceptives: collaborative reanalysis of individual data on 53297 women with breast cancer and 100239 women without breast cancer from 54 epidemiological studies. Lancet 1996; 347: 1713–27
21.
go back to reference Grabrick DM, Hartmann LC, Cerhan JR, et al. Risk of breast cancer with oral contraceptive use in women with a family history of breast cancer. JAMA 2000; 284: 1791–8PubMed Grabrick DM, Hartmann LC, Cerhan JR, et al. Risk of breast cancer with oral contraceptive use in women with a family history of breast cancer. JAMA 2000; 284: 1791–8PubMed
22.
go back to reference Lipworth L, Katsouyanni K, Stuver S, et al. Oral contraceptives, menopausal estrogens, and the risk of breast cancer: a case-control study in Greece. Int J Cancer 1995; 62: 548–51PubMed Lipworth L, Katsouyanni K, Stuver S, et al. Oral contraceptives, menopausal estrogens, and the risk of breast cancer: a case-control study in Greece. Int J Cancer 1995; 62: 548–51PubMed
23.
go back to reference Levi F, Lucchini F, La Vecchia C. Oral contraceptives, menopausal hormone replacement treatment and breast cancer risk. Eur J Cancer Prev 1996; 5: 259–66PubMed Levi F, Lucchini F, La Vecchia C. Oral contraceptives, menopausal hormone replacement treatment and breast cancer risk. Eur J Cancer Prev 1996; 5: 259–66PubMed
24.
go back to reference Newcomb PA, Longnecker MP, Storer BE, et al. Recent oral contraceptive use and risk of breast cancer (United States). Cancer Causes Control 1996; 7: 525–32PubMed Newcomb PA, Longnecker MP, Storer BE, et al. Recent oral contraceptive use and risk of breast cancer (United States). Cancer Causes Control 1996; 7: 525–32PubMed
25.
go back to reference Tryggvadottir L, Tulinius H, Gudmundsdotttir GB. Oral contraceptive use at a young age and the risk of breast cancer: an Icelandic, population-based cohort study of the effect of birth year. Br J Cancer 1997; 75 139–43PubMed Tryggvadottir L, Tulinius H, Gudmundsdotttir GB. Oral contraceptive use at a young age and the risk of breast cancer: an Icelandic, population-based cohort study of the effect of birth year. Br J Cancer 1997; 75 139–43PubMed
26.
go back to reference Magnusson CM, Persson IR, Baron JA, et al. The role of reproductive factors and use of oral contraceptives in the aetiology of breast cancer in women age 50 to 74 years. Int J Cancer 1999; 80: 231–6PubMed Magnusson CM, Persson IR, Baron JA, et al. The role of reproductive factors and use of oral contraceptives in the aetiology of breast cancer in women age 50 to 74 years. Int J Cancer 1999; 80: 231–6PubMed
27.
go back to reference Ursin G, Wu AH, Hoover RN, et al. Breast cancer and oral contraceptive use in Asian-American women. Am J Epidemiol 1999; 150: 561–7PubMed Ursin G, Wu AH, Hoover RN, et al. Breast cancer and oral contraceptive use in Asian-American women. Am J Epidemiol 1999; 150: 561–7PubMed
28.
go back to reference Van Hoften C, Burger H, Peeters PHM, et al. Long-term oral contraceptive use increases breast cancer risk in women over 55 years of age: the DOM cohort. Int J Cancer 2000; 87: 591–4PubMed Van Hoften C, Burger H, Peeters PHM, et al. Long-term oral contraceptive use increases breast cancer risk in women over 55 years of age: the DOM cohort. Int J Cancer 2000; 87: 591–4PubMed
29.
go back to reference Shapiro S, Rosenberg L, Hoffman M, et al. Risk of breast cancer in relation to the use of injectable progestogen contraceptives and combined estrogen/progestogen contraceptives. Am J Epidemiol 2000; 151: 396–403PubMed Shapiro S, Rosenberg L, Hoffman M, et al. Risk of breast cancer in relation to the use of injectable progestogen contraceptives and combined estrogen/progestogen contraceptives. Am J Epidemiol 2000; 151: 396–403PubMed
30.
go back to reference International Agency for Research on Cancer. Monographs on the evaluation of the carcinogenic risks to humans. Vol. 64. Human papillomaviruses. Lyon: International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1995 International Agency for Research on Cancer. Monographs on the evaluation of the carcinogenic risks to humans. Vol. 64. Human papillomaviruses. Lyon: International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1995
31.
go back to reference Walboomers JMM, Jacobs MV, Manos MM, et al. Human papillomavirus is a necessary cause of invasive cervical cancer worldwide. J Pathol 1999; 189: 12–9PubMed Walboomers JMM, Jacobs MV, Manos MM, et al. Human papillomavirus is a necessary cause of invasive cervical cancer worldwide. J Pathol 1999; 189: 12–9PubMed
32.
go back to reference Daling JR, Madeleine MM, McKnight B, et al. The relationship of human papillomavirus-related cervical tumors to cigarette smoking, oral contraceptive use, and prior herpes simplex virus type 2 infection. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1996; 5: 541–8PubMed Daling JR, Madeleine MM, McKnight B, et al. The relationship of human papillomavirus-related cervical tumors to cigarette smoking, oral contraceptive use, and prior herpes simplex virus type 2 infection. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1996; 5: 541–8PubMed
33.
go back to reference Ngelangel C, Munoz N, Bosch FX, et al. Causes of cervical cancer in the Philippines: a case-control study. J Natl Cancer Inst 1998; 90: 43–9PubMed Ngelangel C, Munoz N, Bosch FX, et al. Causes of cervical cancer in the Philippines: a case-control study. J Natl Cancer Inst 1998; 90: 43–9PubMed
34.
go back to reference Chichareon S, Herrero R, Munoz N, et al. Risk factors for cervical cancer in Thailand: a case-control study. J Natl Cancer Inst 1998; 90: 50–7PubMed Chichareon S, Herrero R, Munoz N, et al. Risk factors for cervical cancer in Thailand: a case-control study. J Natl Cancer Inst 1998; 90: 50–7PubMed
35.
go back to reference Deacon JM, Evans CD, Yule R, et al. Sexual behaviour and smoking as determinants of cervical HPV infection and of CIN3 among those infected: a case-control study nested within the Manchester cohort. Br J Cancer 2000; 88: 1565–72 Deacon JM, Evans CD, Yule R, et al. Sexual behaviour and smoking as determinants of cervical HPV infection and of CIN3 among those infected: a case-control study nested within the Manchester cohort. Br J Cancer 2000; 88: 1565–72
36.
go back to reference Vizcaino AP, Moreno V, Bosch FX, et al. International trends in the incidence of cervical cancer: I, adenocarcinoma and adenosquamous cell carcinomas. Int J Cancer 1998; 75: 536–45PubMed Vizcaino AP, Moreno V, Bosch FX, et al. International trends in the incidence of cervical cancer: I, adenocarcinoma and adenosquamous cell carcinomas. Int J Cancer 1998; 75: 536–45PubMed
37.
go back to reference La Vecchia C. The long-term impact of oral contraceptives on ovarian and endometrial carcinogenesis. Eur J Cancer Prev 2000; 9: 137–8PubMed La Vecchia C. The long-term impact of oral contraceptives on ovarian and endometrial carcinogenesis. Eur J Cancer Prev 2000; 9: 137–8PubMed
38.
go back to reference CASH (Cancer and Steroid Hormone Study of the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institute ofChild Health and Human Development). Combination oral contraceptive use and the risk of endometrial cancer. JAMA 1987; 257: 796–800 CASH (Cancer and Steroid Hormone Study of the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institute ofChild Health and Human Development). Combination oral contraceptive use and the risk of endometrial cancer. JAMA 1987; 257: 796–800
39.
go back to reference Voigt LF, Deng Q, Weiss NS. Recency, duration and progestin content or oral contraceptives in relation to the incidence of endometrial cancer (Washington, USA). Cancer Causes Control 1994; 5: 227–33PubMed Voigt LF, Deng Q, Weiss NS. Recency, duration and progestin content or oral contraceptives in relation to the incidence of endometrial cancer (Washington, USA). Cancer Causes Control 1994; 5: 227–33PubMed
40.
go back to reference Levi F, La Vecchia C, Gulie C, et al. Oral contraceptives and the risk of endometrial cancer. Cancer Causes Control 1991; 2: 99–103PubMed Levi F, La Vecchia C, Gulie C, et al. Oral contraceptives and the risk of endometrial cancer. Cancer Causes Control 1991; 2: 99–103PubMed
41.
go back to reference Parslov M, Lidegaard 0, Klintorp S, et al. Risk factors among young women with endometrial cancer: a Danish case-control study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2000; 182: 23–9PubMed Parslov M, Lidegaard 0, Klintorp S, et al. Risk factors among young women with endometrial cancer: a Danish case-control study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2000; 182: 23–9PubMed
42.
go back to reference Parazzini F, Franceschi S, La Vecchia C, et al. The epidemiology of ovarian cancer. Gynecol Oncol 1991; 43: 9–23PubMed Parazzini F, Franceschi S, La Vecchia C, et al. The epidemiology of ovarian cancer. Gynecol Oncol 1991; 43: 9–23PubMed
43.
go back to reference La Vecchia C, Lucchini F, Negri E, et al. Trends of cancer mortality in Europe, 1955-1989. III: breast and genital sites. Eur J Cancer 1992; 28A: 927–98PubMed La Vecchia C, Lucchini F, Negri E, et al. Trends of cancer mortality in Europe, 1955-1989. III: breast and genital sites. Eur J Cancer 1992; 28A: 927–98PubMed
44.
go back to reference La Vecchia C, Negri E, Levi F, et al. Cancer mortality in Europe: effects of age, cohort of birth and period of death. Eur J Cancer 1998; 34: 118–41PubMed La Vecchia C, Negri E, Levi F, et al. Cancer mortality in Europe: effects of age, cohort of birth and period of death. Eur J Cancer 1998; 34: 118–41PubMed
45.
go back to reference La Vecchia C, Franceschi S. Oral contraceptives and ovarian cancer. Eur J Cancer Prev 1999; 8: 297–304PubMed La Vecchia C, Franceschi S. Oral contraceptives and ovarian cancer. Eur J Cancer Prev 1999; 8: 297–304PubMed
46.
go back to reference Levi F, Gutzwiller F, Decarli A, et al. Oral contraceptive use and breast and ovarian cancer mortality in Switzerland. J Epidemiol Comm Health 1987; 41: 267–8 Levi F, Gutzwiller F, Decarli A, et al. Oral contraceptive use and breast and ovarian cancer mortality in Switzerland. J Epidemiol Comm Health 1987; 41: 267–8
47.
go back to reference Villard-Mackintosh L, Vessey MP, Jones L. The effects of oral contraceptives and parity on ovarian cancer trends in women under 55 years of age. Br J Obstet Gynecol 1989; 96: 783–8 Villard-Mackintosh L, Vessey MP, Jones L. The effects of oral contraceptives and parity on ovarian cancer trends in women under 55 years of age. Br J Obstet Gynecol 1989; 96: 783–8
48.
go back to reference Adami H-O, Hsieh C-C, Lambe M, et al. Parity, age at first childbirth, and risk of ovarian cancer. Lancet 1994; 334: 1250–4 Adami H-O, Hsieh C-C, Lambe M, et al. Parity, age at first childbirth, and risk of ovarian cancer. Lancet 1994; 334: 1250–4
49.
go back to reference dos Santos Silva I, Swerdlow AJ. Recent trends in incidence of and mortality from breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers in England and Wales and their relation to changing fertility and oral contraceptive use. Br J Cancer 1995; 72: 485–92PubMed dos Santos Silva I, Swerdlow AJ. Recent trends in incidence of and mortality from breast, ovarian and endometrial cancers in England and Wales and their relation to changing fertility and oral contraceptive use. Br J Cancer 1995; 72: 485–92PubMed
50.
go back to reference Koper NP, Kiemeney LALM, Massuger LFAG, et al. Ovarian cancer incidence (1989-1991) and mortality (1954-1993) in the Netherlands. Obstet Gynecol 1996; 88: 387–93PubMed Koper NP, Kiemeney LALM, Massuger LFAG, et al. Ovarian cancer incidence (1989-1991) and mortality (1954-1993) in the Netherlands. Obstet Gynecol 1996; 88: 387–93PubMed
51.
go back to reference Levi F, Lucchini F, Negri E, et al. Cancer mortality in Europe, 1990-94, and an overview of trends from 1955 to 1994. Eur J Cancer 1999; 35: 1477–516PubMed Levi F, Lucchini F, Negri E, et al. Cancer mortality in Europe, 1990-94, and an overview of trends from 1955 to 1994. Eur J Cancer 1999; 35: 1477–516PubMed
52.
go back to reference Tarone RE, Chu KC. Age-period-cohort analyses of breast-, ovarian, endometrial- and cervical-cancer mortality rates for Caucasian women in the USA. J Epidemiol Biostat 2000; 5: 221–31PubMed Tarone RE, Chu KC. Age-period-cohort analyses of breast-, ovarian, endometrial- and cervical-cancer mortality rates for Caucasian women in the USA. J Epidemiol Biostat 2000; 5: 221–31PubMed
53.
go back to reference Ramcharan S, Pellegrin FA, Ray R, et al. The Walnut Creek Contraceptive Study: a prospective study of the side effects of oral contraceptives. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Health, 1981: NIH publication no. 81–564, Vol. III Ramcharan S, Pellegrin FA, Ray R, et al. The Walnut Creek Contraceptive Study: a prospective study of the side effects of oral contraceptives. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Health, 1981: NIH publication no. 81–564, Vol. III
54.
go back to reference Vessey MP, Painter R. Endometrial and ovarian cancer and oral contraceptives: findings in a large cohort study. Br J Cancer 1995; 71: 1340–2PubMed Vessey MP, Painter R. Endometrial and ovarian cancer and oral contraceptives: findings in a large cohort study. Br J Cancer 1995; 71: 1340–2PubMed
55.
go back to reference Hankinson SE, Colditz GA, Hunter DJ, et al. A prospective study of reproductive factors and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Cancer 1995; 76: 284–90PubMed Hankinson SE, Colditz GA, Hunter DJ, et al. A prospective study of reproductive factors and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Cancer 1995; 76: 284–90PubMed
56.
go back to reference Beral V, Hannaford P, Kay C. Oral contraceptive use and malignancies of the genital tract: results of the Royal College of General Practitioners’ Oral Contraception Study. Lancet 1988; I: 1331–5 Beral V, Hannaford P, Kay C. Oral contraceptive use and malignancies of the genital tract: results of the Royal College of General Practitioners’ Oral Contraception Study. Lancet 1988; I: 1331–5
57.
go back to reference Willett WC, Bain C, Hennekens CH, et al. Oral contraceptives and risk of ovarian cancer. Cancer 1981; 48: 1684–7PubMed Willett WC, Bain C, Hennekens CH, et al. Oral contraceptives and risk of ovarian cancer. Cancer 1981; 48: 1684–7PubMed
58.
go back to reference Hildreth NG, Kelsey JL, LiVolsi VA, et al. An epidemiologic study of epithelial carcinoma of the ovary. Am J Epidemiol 1981; 114: 398–405PubMed Hildreth NG, Kelsey JL, LiVolsi VA, et al. An epidemiologic study of epithelial carcinoma of the ovary. Am J Epidemiol 1981; 114: 398–405PubMed
59.
go back to reference Weiss NS, Lyon JL, Liff JM, et al. Incidence of ovarian cancer in relation to the use of oral contraceptives. Int J Cancer 1981; 28: 669–71PubMed Weiss NS, Lyon JL, Liff JM, et al. Incidence of ovarian cancer in relation to the use of oral contraceptives. Int J Cancer 1981; 28: 669–71PubMed
60.
go back to reference Cramer DW, Hutchison GB, Welch WR, et al. Factors affecting the association of oral contraceptives and ovarian cancer. N Engl J Med 1982; 307: 1047–51PubMed Cramer DW, Hutchison GB, Welch WR, et al. Factors affecting the association of oral contraceptives and ovarian cancer. N Engl J Med 1982; 307: 1047–51PubMed
61.
go back to reference Rosenberg L, Palmer JR, Zauber AG, et al. A case-control study of oral contraceptive use and invasive epithelial ovarian cancer. Am J Epidemiol 1994; 139: 654–61PubMed Rosenberg L, Palmer JR, Zauber AG, et al. A case-control study of oral contraceptive use and invasive epithelial ovarian cancer. Am J Epidemiol 1994; 139: 654–61PubMed
62.
go back to reference Risch HA, Weiss NS, Lyon JL, et al. Events of reproductive life and the incidence of epithelial ovarian cancer. Am J Epidemiol 1983; 117: 128–39PubMed Risch HA, Weiss NS, Lyon JL, et al. Events of reproductive life and the incidence of epithelial ovarian cancer. Am J Epidemiol 1983; 117: 128–39PubMed
63.
go back to reference Tzonou A, Day NE, Trichopoulos D, et al. The epidemiology of ovarian cancer in Greece: a case-control study. Eur J Cancer Clin Oncol 1984; 20: 1045–52PubMed Tzonou A, Day NE, Trichopoulos D, et al. The epidemiology of ovarian cancer in Greece: a case-control study. Eur J Cancer Clin Oncol 1984; 20: 1045–52PubMed
64.
go back to reference Harlow BL, Weiss NS, Roth GJ, et al. Case-control study of borderline ovarian tumors: reproductive history and exposure to exogenous female hormones. Cancer Res 1988; 48: 5849–52PubMed Harlow BL, Weiss NS, Roth GJ, et al. Case-control study of borderline ovarian tumors: reproductive history and exposure to exogenous female hormones. Cancer Res 1988; 48: 5849–52PubMed
65.
go back to reference Wu ML, Whittemore AS, Paffenbarger Jr RS, et al. Personal and environmental characteristics related to epithelial ovarian cancer. I: reproductive and menstrual events and oral contraceptive use. Am J Epidemiol 1988; 128: 1216–27PubMed Wu ML, Whittemore AS, Paffenbarger Jr RS, et al. Personal and environmental characteristics related to epithelial ovarian cancer. I: reproductive and menstrual events and oral contraceptive use. Am J Epidemiol 1988; 128: 1216–27PubMed
66.
go back to reference Shu XO, Brinton LA, Gao YT, et al. Population-based case-control study of ovarian cancer in Shangai. Cancer Res 1989; 49: 3670–4PubMed Shu XO, Brinton LA, Gao YT, et al. Population-based case-control study of ovarian cancer in Shangai. Cancer Res 1989; 49: 3670–4PubMed
67.
go back to reference World Health Organization Collaborative Study of Neoplasia and Steroid Contraceptives. Epithelial ovarian cancer and combined oral contraceptives. Int J Epidemiol 1989; 18: 538–45 World Health Organization Collaborative Study of Neoplasia and Steroid Contraceptives. Epithelial ovarian cancer and combined oral contraceptives. Int J Epidemiol 1989; 18: 538–45
68.
go back to reference Hartge P, Schiffman MH, Hoover R, et al. A case-control study of epithelial ovarian cancer. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1989; 161: 10–6PubMed Hartge P, Schiffman MH, Hoover R, et al. A case-control study of epithelial ovarian cancer. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1989; 161: 10–6PubMed
69.
go back to reference Booth M, Beral V, Smith P. Risk factors for ovarian cancer: a case-control study. Br J Cancer 1989; 60: 592–8PubMed Booth M, Beral V, Smith P. Risk factors for ovarian cancer: a case-control study. Br J Cancer 1989; 60: 592–8PubMed
70.
go back to reference Parazzini F, La Vecchia C, Negri E, et al. Oral contraceptives use and the risk of ovarian cancer: an Italian case-control study. Eur J Cancer 1991; 27: 594–8PubMed Parazzini F, La Vecchia C, Negri E, et al. Oral contraceptives use and the risk of ovarian cancer: an Italian case-control study. Eur J Cancer 1991; 27: 594–8PubMed
71.
go back to reference Parazzini F, Restelli C, La Vecchia C, et al. Risk factors for epithelial ovarian tumours of borderline malignancy. Int J Epidemiol 1991; 20: 871–7PubMed Parazzini F, Restelli C, La Vecchia C, et al. Risk factors for epithelial ovarian tumours of borderline malignancy. Int J Epidemiol 1991; 20: 871–7PubMed
72.
go back to reference Polychronopoulou A, Tzonou A, Hsieh C, et al. Reproductive variables, tobacco, ethanol, coffee and somatometry as risk factors for ovarian cancer. Int J Cancer 1993; 55: 402–7PubMed Polychronopoulou A, Tzonou A, Hsieh C, et al. Reproductive variables, tobacco, ethanol, coffee and somatometry as risk factors for ovarian cancer. Int J Cancer 1993; 55: 402–7PubMed
73.
go back to reference Rosenberg L, Shapiro S, Slone D, et al. Epithelial ovarian cancer and combination oral contraceptives. JAMA 1982; 247: 3210–2PubMed Rosenberg L, Shapiro S, Slone D, et al. Epithelial ovarian cancer and combination oral contraceptives. JAMA 1982; 247: 3210–2PubMed
74.
go back to reference Risch HA, Marrett LD, Howe GR. Parity, contraception, infertility, and the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Am J Epidemiol 1994; 140: 585–97PubMed Risch HA, Marrett LD, Howe GR. Parity, contraception, infertility, and the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Am J Epidemiol 1994; 140: 585–97PubMed
75.
go back to reference Risch HA, Marrett LD, Jain M, et al. Differences in risk factors for epithelial ovarian cancer by histologic type. Results of a case-control study. Am J Epidemiol 1996; 144: 363–72PubMed Risch HA, Marrett LD, Jain M, et al. Differences in risk factors for epithelial ovarian cancer by histologic type. Results of a case-control study. Am J Epidemiol 1996; 144: 363–72PubMed
76.
go back to reference Purdie D, Green A, Bain C, et al. For the Survey of Women’s Health Group. Reproductive and other factors and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer: an Australian case-control study. Int J Cancer 1995; 62: 678–84PubMed Purdie D, Green A, Bain C, et al. For the Survey of Women’s Health Group. Reproductive and other factors and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer: an Australian case-control study. Int J Cancer 1995; 62: 678–84PubMed
77.
go back to reference Franceschi S, Parazzini F, Negri E, et al. Pooled analysis of 3 European case-control studies of epithelial ovarian cancer. III: oral contraceptive use. Int J Cancer 1991; 49: 61–5PubMed Franceschi S, Parazzini F, Negri E, et al. Pooled analysis of 3 European case-control studies of epithelial ovarian cancer. III: oral contraceptive use. Int J Cancer 1991; 49: 61–5PubMed
78.
go back to reference Whittemore AS, Harris R, Intyre J, the Collaborative Ovarian Cancer Group. Characteristics relating to ovarian cancer risk: collaborative analysis of 12 US case-control studies. II: invasive epithelial ovarian cancers in white women. Am J Epidemiol 1992; 136: 1184–203PubMed Whittemore AS, Harris R, Intyre J, the Collaborative Ovarian Cancer Group. Characteristics relating to ovarian cancer risk: collaborative analysis of 12 US case-control studies. II: invasive epithelial ovarian cancers in white women. Am J Epidemiol 1992; 136: 1184–203PubMed
79.
go back to reference John EM, Whittemore AS, Harris R, et al., and the Collaborative Ovarian Cancer Group Characteristics relating to ovarian cancer risk: collaborative analysis of seven U.S. case-control studies. Epithelial ovarian cancer in black women. J Natl Cancer Inst 1993; 85: 142–7PubMed John EM, Whittemore AS, Harris R, et al., and the Collaborative Ovarian Cancer Group Characteristics relating to ovarian cancer risk: collaborative analysis of seven U.S. case-control studies. Epithelial ovarian cancer in black women. J Natl Cancer Inst 1993; 85: 142–7PubMed
80.
go back to reference Harris R, Whittemore AS, Intyre J, and the Collaborative Ovarian Cancer Group. (1992) Characteristics relating to ovarian cancer risk: collaborative analysis of 12US case-control studies. III: epithelial tumors of low malignant potential in white women. Am J Epidemiol 1992; 136: 1204–11PubMed Harris R, Whittemore AS, Intyre J, and the Collaborative Ovarian Cancer Group. (1992) Characteristics relating to ovarian cancer risk: collaborative analysis of 12US case-control studies. III: epithelial tumors of low malignant potential in white women. Am J Epidemiol 1992; 136: 1204–11PubMed
81.
go back to reference Fioretti F, La Vecchia C, Tavani A, et al. Package inserts of oral contraceptives in Italy. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 1996; 5: 315–9PubMed Fioretti F, La Vecchia C, Tavani A, et al. Package inserts of oral contraceptives in Italy. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 1996; 5: 315–9PubMed
82.
go back to reference Horn-Ross PL, Whittemore AS, Harris R, et al., and the Collaborative Ovarian Cancer Group. Characteristics relating to ovarian cancer risk: collaborative Analysis of 12 U.S. case-control Studies. VI: nonepithelial cancers among adults. Epidemiology 1992; 3: 490–5PubMed Horn-Ross PL, Whittemore AS, Harris R, et al., and the Collaborative Ovarian Cancer Group. Characteristics relating to ovarian cancer risk: collaborative Analysis of 12 U.S. case-control Studies. VI: nonepithelial cancers among adults. Epidemiology 1992; 3: 490–5PubMed
83.
go back to reference Parazzini F, La Vecchia C, Franceschi S, et al. Risk factors for endometrioid, mucinous and serous benign ovarian cysts. Int J Cancer 1989; 18: 108–12 Parazzini F, La Vecchia C, Franceschi S, et al. Risk factors for endometrioid, mucinous and serous benign ovarian cysts. Int J Cancer 1989; 18: 108–12
84.
go back to reference Booth M, Beral V, Maconochie N, et al. Acase-control study of benign ovarian tumours. J Epidemiol Community Health 1992; 46: 528–31PubMed Booth M, Beral V, Maconochie N, et al. Acase-control study of benign ovarian tumours. J Epidemiol Community Health 1992; 46: 528–31PubMed
85.
go back to reference Westhoff C, Pike M, Vessey M. Benign ovarian teratomas: a population-based case-control study. Br J Cancer 1988; 58: 93–8PubMed Westhoff C, Pike M, Vessey M. Benign ovarian teratomas: a population-based case-control study. Br J Cancer 1988; 58: 93–8PubMed
86.
go back to reference Parazzini F, La Vecchia C, Negri E, et al. Risk factors for benign ovarian teratomas. Br J Cancer 1995; 71: 644–6PubMed Parazzini F, La Vecchia C, Negri E, et al. Risk factors for benign ovarian teratomas. Br J Cancer 1995; 71: 644–6PubMed
87.
go back to reference Rosenblatt KA, Thomas DB, Noonan EA, the WHO Collaborative Study of Neoplasia and Steroid Contraceptives. Highdose and low-dose combined oral contraceptives: protection against epithelial ovarian cancer and the length of the protective effect. Eur J Cancer 1992; 28A: 1872–6PubMed Rosenblatt KA, Thomas DB, Noonan EA, the WHO Collaborative Study of Neoplasia and Steroid Contraceptives. Highdose and low-dose combined oral contraceptives: protection against epithelial ovarian cancer and the length of the protective effect. Eur J Cancer 1992; 28A: 1872–6PubMed
88.
go back to reference Jernstrom H, Chu W, Vesprini D, et al. Genetic factors related to racial variation in plasma levels of insulin-like growth factor-1: implications for premenopausal breast cancer risk. Mol Genet Metab 2001; 72: 144–54PubMed Jernstrom H, Chu W, Vesprini D, et al. Genetic factors related to racial variation in plasma levels of insulin-like growth factor-1: implications for premenopausal breast cancer risk. Mol Genet Metab 2001; 72: 144–54PubMed
89.
go back to reference Simon WE, Albrecht M, Hänsel M, et al. Cell lines derived from human ovarian carcinomas: growth stimulation by gonadotropic and steroid hormones. J Natl Cancer Inst 1983; 70: 839–45PubMed Simon WE, Albrecht M, Hänsel M, et al. Cell lines derived from human ovarian carcinomas: growth stimulation by gonadotropic and steroid hormones. J Natl Cancer Inst 1983; 70: 839–45PubMed
90.
go back to reference Negri E, Tzonou A, Beral V, et al. Hormonal therapy for menopause and ovarian cancer in a collaborative re-analysis of European studies. Int J Cancer 1999; 80: 848–51PubMed Negri E, Tzonou A, Beral V, et al. Hormonal therapy for menopause and ovarian cancer in a collaborative re-analysis of European studies. Int J Cancer 1999; 80: 848–51PubMed
91.
go back to reference Gross TP, Schlesselman JJ. The estimated effect of oral contraceptive use on the cumulative risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Obstet Gynecol 1994; 83: 419–24PubMed Gross TP, Schlesselman JJ. The estimated effect of oral contraceptive use on the cumulative risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Obstet Gynecol 1994; 83: 419–24PubMed
92.
go back to reference Fraumeni JF, Lloyd JW, Smith EM, et al. Cancer mortality among nuns: role of marital status in etiology of neoplastic disease in women. J Natl Cancer Inst 1969; 42: 455–68PubMed Fraumeni JF, Lloyd JW, Smith EM, et al. Cancer mortality among nuns: role of marital status in etiology of neoplastic disease in women. J Natl Cancer Inst 1969; 42: 455–68PubMed
93.
go back to reference Herbert-Croteau N. A meta-analysis of hormone replacement therapy and colon cancer in women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1998; 7: 653–9 Herbert-Croteau N. A meta-analysis of hormone replacement therapy and colon cancer in women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1998; 7: 653–9
94.
go back to reference Fernandez E, La Vecchia C, Balducci A, et al. Oral contraceptives and colorectal cancer risk: a meta-analysis. Br J Cancer; 2001; 84: 722–7PubMed Fernandez E, La Vecchia C, Balducci A, et al. Oral contraceptives and colorectal cancer risk: a meta-analysis. Br J Cancer; 2001; 84: 722–7PubMed
95.
go back to reference Weiss NS, Daling JR, Chow WH. Incidence of cancer of the large bowel in women in relation to reproductive and hormonal factors. J Natl Cancer Inst 1981; 67: 57–60PubMed Weiss NS, Daling JR, Chow WH. Incidence of cancer of the large bowel in women in relation to reproductive and hormonal factors. J Natl Cancer Inst 1981; 67: 57–60PubMed
96.
go back to reference Potter JD, McMichael AJ. Large bowel cancer in women in relation to reproductive and hormonal factors: a case-control study. J Natl Cancer Inst 1983; 71: 703–9PubMed Potter JD, McMichael AJ. Large bowel cancer in women in relation to reproductive and hormonal factors: a case-control study. J Natl Cancer Inst 1983; 71: 703–9PubMed
97.
go back to reference Furner SE, Davis FG, Nelson RL, et al. A case-control study of large bowel cancer and hormone exposure in women. Cancer Res 1989; 49: 4936–40PubMed Furner SE, Davis FG, Nelson RL, et al. A case-control study of large bowel cancer and hormone exposure in women. Cancer Res 1989; 49: 4936–40PubMed
98.
go back to reference Kune GA, Kune S, Watson LF. Oral contraceptive use does not protect against large bowel cancer. Contraception 1990; 41: 19–25PubMed Kune GA, Kune S, Watson LF. Oral contraceptive use does not protect against large bowel cancer. Contraception 1990; 41: 19–25PubMed
99.
go back to reference Wu-Williams AH, Lee M, Wittemore AS, et al. Reproductive factors and colorectal cancer risk among Chinese females. Cancer Res 1991; 51: 2307–11PubMed Wu-Williams AH, Lee M, Wittemore AS, et al. Reproductive factors and colorectal cancer risk among Chinese females. Cancer Res 1991; 51: 2307–11PubMed
100.
go back to reference Fernandez E, La Vecchia C, D’Avanzo B, et al. Oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy and the risk of colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 1996; 73: 1431–5PubMed Fernandez E, La Vecchia C, D’Avanzo B, et al. Oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy and the risk of colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 1996; 73: 1431–5PubMed
101.
go back to reference Talamini R, Franceschi S, Dal Maso L, et al. The influence of reproductive and hormonal factors on the risk of colon and rectal cancer in women. Eur J Cancer 1998; 34: 1070–6PubMed Talamini R, Franceschi S, Dal Maso L, et al. The influence of reproductive and hormonal factors on the risk of colon and rectal cancer in women. Eur J Cancer 1998; 34: 1070–6PubMed
102.
go back to reference Martinez ME, Grodstein F, Giovannucci E, et al. A prospective study of reproductive factors, oral contraceptive use, and risk of colorectal cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1997; 6: 1–5PubMed Martinez ME, Grodstein F, Giovannucci E, et al. A prospective study of reproductive factors, oral contraceptive use, and risk of colorectal cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 1997; 6: 1–5PubMed
103.
go back to reference Troisi R, Schairer C, Chow W-H, et al. Reproductive factors, oral contraceptive use, a risk of colorectal cancer. Epidemiology 1997; 8: 75–9PubMed Troisi R, Schairer C, Chow W-H, et al. Reproductive factors, oral contraceptive use, a risk of colorectal cancer. Epidemiology 1997; 8: 75–9PubMed
104.
go back to reference van Wayenburg CAM, van der Schouw YT, van Noord PAH. Age at menopause, body mass index, and the risk of colorectal cancer mortality in the Dutch Diagnostisch Onderzoeck Mammacarcinoom (DOM) cohort. Epidemiology 2000; 11: 304–8PubMed van Wayenburg CAM, van der Schouw YT, van Noord PAH. Age at menopause, body mass index, and the risk of colorectal cancer mortality in the Dutch Diagnostisch Onderzoeck Mammacarcinoom (DOM) cohort. Epidemiology 2000; 11: 304–8PubMed
105.
go back to reference McMichael AJ, Potter J. Host factors in carcinogenesis: certain bile-acid metabolis profiles that selectively increase the risk of proximal colon cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 1985; 75: 185–91PubMed McMichael AJ, Potter J. Host factors in carcinogenesis: certain bile-acid metabolis profiles that selectively increase the risk of proximal colon cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 1985; 75: 185–91PubMed
106.
go back to reference Lointier P, Wildrick DM, Boman BM. The effects of steroid hormones on a human colon cancer cell line in vitro. Anticancer Res 1992; 12: 1327–30PubMed Lointier P, Wildrick DM, Boman BM. The effects of steroid hormones on a human colon cancer cell line in vitro. Anticancer Res 1992; 12: 1327–30PubMed
107.
go back to reference Thomas ML, Xu X, Norfleet AM, et al. The presence of functional estrogen receptors in intestinal epithelial cells. Endocrinology 1993; 132: 426–30PubMed Thomas ML, Xu X, Norfleet AM, et al. The presence of functional estrogen receptors in intestinal epithelial cells. Endocrinology 1993; 132: 426–30PubMed
108.
go back to reference Issa JP, Ottaviano YL, Celano P, et al. Methylation of the oestrogen receptor CpG island links ageing and neoplasia in human colon. Nat Genet 1994; 7: 536–40PubMed Issa JP, Ottaviano YL, Celano P, et al. Methylation of the oestrogen receptor CpG island links ageing and neoplasia in human colon. Nat Genet 1994; 7: 536–40PubMed
109.
go back to reference Campagnoli C, Biglia N, Cantamessa C, et al. Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) serum level modifications during transdermal estradiol treatment in postmenopausal women: a possible bimodal effect depending on basal IGF-I values. Gynecol Endocrinol 1998; 12: 259–66PubMed Campagnoli C, Biglia N, Cantamessa C, et al. Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) serum level modifications during transdermal estradiol treatment in postmenopausal women: a possible bimodal effect depending on basal IGF-I values. Gynecol Endocrinol 1998; 12: 259–66PubMed
110.
go back to reference El Atiq F, Garrouste F, Remacle-Bonnet M, et al. Alterations in serum levels of insulin-like growth factors and insulin-like growth-factor-binding proteins in patients with colorectal cancer. Int J Cancer 1994; 57: 491–7PubMed El Atiq F, Garrouste F, Remacle-Bonnet M, et al. Alterations in serum levels of insulin-like growth factors and insulin-like growth-factor-binding proteins in patients with colorectal cancer. Int J Cancer 1994; 57: 491–7PubMed
111.
go back to reference Giovannucci E, Pollak MN, Platz EA, et al. Aprospective study of plasma insulin-like growth factor-1 and binding protein-3 and risk of colorectal neoplasia in women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2000; 9: 345–9PubMed Giovannucci E, Pollak MN, Platz EA, et al. Aprospective study of plasma insulin-like growth factor-1 and binding protein-3 and risk of colorectal neoplasia in women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2000; 9: 345–9PubMed
112.
go back to reference Potter JD. Colorectal cancer: molecules and populations. J Natl Cancer Inst 1999; 91: 916–32PubMed Potter JD. Colorectal cancer: molecules and populations. J Natl Cancer Inst 1999; 91: 916–32PubMed
113.
go back to reference La Vecchia C. Oral contraceptives, cancer and vascular disease. Eur J Cancer Prev. In press La Vecchia C. Oral contraceptives, cancer and vascular disease. Eur J Cancer Prev. In press
Metadata
Title
Oral Contraceptives and Cancer
An Update
Authors
Dr Carlo La Vecchia
Andrea Altieri
Silvia Franceschi
Alessandra Tavani
Publication date
01-08-2001
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
Drug Safety / Issue 10/2001
Print ISSN: 0114-5916
Electronic ISSN: 1179-1942
DOI
https://doi.org/10.2165/00002018-200124100-00003

Other articles of this Issue 10/2001

Drug Safety 10/2001 Go to the issue