Breast cancer and birth control pills seem to be related closely since both are concerned with a common user, women. Many studies conducted the world over claim that the two are related. But so far, no link has been established to support such claims.
Birth control pills are contraceptive pills used by women to put off unplanned pregnancies. The main ingredients of the pill are female hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones when ingested work in order to control the function of uterus and ovaries by preventing the process of ovulation. If no eggs are available for fertilization, conception will not occur. The pill also ensures that the mucus lining of the cervix gets thickened and hence, does not permit entry of the sperms into the uterus.
Breast cancer occurs due to multiplication of the cells in the tissues of the breast, thus forming tumors. The contributing factors for this tumor are probably life-style or other genetic factors. The female hormones enhance the multiplication of cells resulting in the formation of tumors.
Birth control pills were introduced as a method of contraception in the 1960s and are still regarded one of the safest means. Studies conducted on oral pills for contraception have brought out contradictory reports. Some doctors believe that the hormones used now as compared to those used in earlier times for preparing these pills are different. These increase the risk of cancer. When the ingestion is stopped, the chances of getting cancer also get minimized.
Chances of occurrence of cancer in women who have a family history of breast cancer are higher. According to a study presented by the American Medical Association, women who take contraceptive pills and have a family history of breast caner are almost eleven times more susceptible of getting breast cancer. Many scientists believe that this could have been true till 1975 since the pills produced till then had high progesterone and estrogen levels.
Some studies state that women aged 35 years and above and consuming these pills have a higher chance of developing breast cancer. Since the pill is hormone based, the side effects of consuming it will exist. In many cases, while the main intent of preventing unwanted pregnancies is achieved, side effects like breast cancer may come by.
Medicines have different effects on different bodies depending on the individual's constitution. Although contraceptive pills have not been proved to cause cancer, it could do so in some women depending on their body reaction to such pills.
About Author:
Kum Martin is an online leading expert in health and fitness. He also offers top quality articles like:
Breast Cancer Signs, Inflammatory Breast Cancer
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