Hormonal contraceptives use female hormones to greatly reduce the risk of pregnancy. Types of hormonal contraceptives include: oral contraceptives (birth control pills), vaginal rings, injections, and contraceptive patches. When used as directed, hormonal contraceptives are over 99% effective.
A research team led by Dr. David Gaist of the Odense University Hospital and and University of Southern Denmark found that women using hormonal contraceptives for over five years may be at an increased risk of developing a glioma, a type of brain tumor. Gliomas occur in the “glia”, or supportive tissue, of the brain. The glia plays a role in ensuring proper neuron functioning.
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The team focused on women between the ages of 15 to 49 and studied 317 cases, comparing each women to eight same-aged women without a glioma. Women who were long-term users of hormonal contraception had an almost doubled risk of developing a glioma when compared to women who had not used hormonal contraception.There was a significant link between an increased risk of developing a glioma and contraceptive usage of five years or longer, supporting previous evidence that suggested that female sex hormones might increase the risk of certain types of cancer.
“While we found a statistically significant association between hormonal contraceptive use and glioma risk, a risk-benefit evaluation would still favor the use of hormonal contraceptives in eligible users.”
-Dr. David Gaist
Although Dr. Gaist indicates that the benefits of hormonal contraceptives outweigh the risks of developing a brain tumor, he also recommends that the effects of long-term contraceptive use should continue to be evaluated and studied.
Feature Image Source: TUE by Alison Curtis
