The Importance of Understanding the Relationship Between Hormonal Contraception and Breast Cancer

Oct 13, 2025 by magicalceylontours.com 0 views

The Relationship Between the Use of Hormonal Contraception and the Incidence of Breast Cancer at the Age of 35 Years at H. Adam Malik Hospital

Introduction

Breast cancer has become one of the leading causes of cancer death in women worldwide. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), breast cancer that occurs at a young age, which is under 35 years, tends to be more aggressive than breast cancer that appears at an older age. Although the main cause of breast cancer is still a debate, there are several risk factors that are believed to increase the likelihood of a person with breast cancer. Among these are age, earlier menarche age, and high levels of hormone estrogen in the body. One source of estrogen exposure is the use of hormonal contraception that contains a combination of estrogen and progesterone.

The Importance of Understanding the Relationship Between Hormonal Contraception and Breast Cancer

The use of hormonal contraception has become a common method of birth control for many women. However, there is a growing concern about the potential link between hormonal contraception and breast cancer. Research has shown that women who use hormonal contraception may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, particularly at a young age. This is because hormonal contraception contains estrogen and progesterone, which can stimulate the growth of breast cells and increase the risk of cancer.

Research Purpose and Methodology

This study aims to identify the relationship between the use of hormonal contraception and the incidence of breast cancer in women under 35 years. This study was conducted at H. Adam Malik Hospital and involved data analysis with control case design. The method used in this study is analytic with a case control design. Sampling techniques are carried out in sequence (Consecutive sampling), which involves 38 cases of breast cancer patients and 38 controls who do not suffer from breast cancer, all are under 35 years old and use hormonal contraception. The data obtained were analyzed using the Chi-Square test and the calculation of the Odds Ratio value to determine the relationship between the variables under study.

Research Results

The results of the study showed the relationship between the use of hormonal contraception and the incidence of breast cancer in women under the age of 35 years, with a P value of 0.037. This shows that women who use hormonal contraception have a risk of 1,921 times greater to experience breast cancer compared to those who do not use these contraception. In addition, this study also revealed the relationship between the use of hormonal contraception for 1-5 years to increased the risk of breast cancer with a P value of 0.091. However, for the use of hormonal contraception for 6-10 years, no significant relationship was found to the incidence of breast cancer, with a P value of 0.472.

Conclusion and Implications

From the results of this study, it can be concluded that there is a relationship between the use of hormonal contraception with the incidence of breast cancer in women under 35 years at H. Adam Malik Hospital. Although there is an increase in risk, it is essential for women to consider various other factors and consult with medical personnel before deciding to use hormonal contraception. The community needs to be more aware of information about the side effects and health risks of hormonal contraception, in order to make more informed decisions about their reproductive health.

Additional Analysis and Future Research Directions

Breast cancer among young women is an issue that gets increasingly attention, given the increase in incidents in this age group. Research like this highlights the importance of understanding the risks that may arise due to the use of hormonal contraception. The community needs to be more aware of information about the side effects and health risks of hormonal contraception, in order to make more informed decisions about their reproductive health. The use of hormonal contraception cannot be seen as the only risk factor for breast cancer, because there are many other variables that can contribute to the development of cancer. Therefore, further research needs to be done to identify and understand the interaction between these factors, as well as to provide better guidance in choosing a safe contraceptive method for women, especially those who are young.

Reducing the Incidence of Breast Cancer and Improving Women's Health

With the increase in awareness and research on this relationship, it is expected to reduce the incidence of breast cancer and improve the quality of life of women in the future. By understanding the risks associated with hormonal contraception, women can make informed decisions about their reproductive health and take steps to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer. This study contributes to the growing body of research on the relationship between hormonal contraception and breast cancer, and highlights the need for further research and education on this important topic.

Recommendations for Future Research

Future research should focus on identifying the specific mechanisms by which hormonal contraception increases the risk of breast cancer, as well as the interaction between hormonal contraception and other risk factors for breast cancer. Additionally, research should aim to develop more effective and safe contraceptive methods that minimize the risk of breast cancer. By working together, we can reduce the incidence of breast cancer and improve the health and well-being of women worldwide.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations that should be acknowledged. Firstly, the sample size was relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Secondly, the study only examined the relationship between hormonal contraception and breast cancer in women under 35 years, and did not investigate the relationship in older women. Finally, the study did not control for other potential risk factors for breast cancer, such as family history and genetic predisposition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study found a significant relationship between the use of hormonal contraception and the incidence of breast cancer in women under 35 years at H. Adam Malik Hospital. The results of this study highlight the importance of understanding the risks associated with hormonal contraception and the need for further research and education on this topic. By working together, we can reduce the incidence of breast cancer and improve the health and well-being of women worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Relationship Between Hormonal Contraception and Breast Cancer

Q: What is the relationship between hormonal contraception and breast cancer?

A: Research has shown that women who use hormonal contraception may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, particularly at a young age. This is because hormonal contraception contains estrogen and progesterone, which can stimulate the growth of breast cells and increase the risk of cancer.

Q: How does hormonal contraception increase the risk of breast cancer?

A: Hormonal contraception contains estrogen and progesterone, which can stimulate the growth of breast cells and increase the risk of cancer. Additionally, hormonal contraception can also affect the levels of other hormones in the body, such as insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which can also contribute to the development of breast cancer.

Q: What is the risk of breast cancer associated with hormonal contraception?

A: The risk of breast cancer associated with hormonal contraception is estimated to be 1,921 times greater for women who use hormonal contraception compared to those who do not use these contraception.

Q: How long does a woman need to use hormonal contraception to increase her risk of breast cancer?

A: Research has shown that women who use hormonal contraception for 1-5 years may have an increased risk of breast cancer. However, the risk is not significant for women who use hormonal contraception for 6-10 years.

Q: Can women who use hormonal contraception reduce their risk of breast cancer?

A: Yes, women who use hormonal contraception can reduce their risk of breast cancer by taking certain precautions. These include:

Using the lowest effective dose of hormonal contraception for the shortest duration necessary
Choosing a hormonal contraception that contains a lower dose of estrogen
Avoiding the use of hormonal contraception for extended periods of time
Getting regular mammograms and breast exams

Q: What are the other risk factors for breast cancer?

A: In addition to hormonal contraception, there are several other risk factors for breast cancer, including:

Family history of breast cancer
Genetic predisposition (e.g. BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes)
Age (breast cancer risk increases with age)
Earlier menarche age
Later menopause age
Radiation exposure
Obesity

Q: Can women who have a family history of breast cancer use hormonal contraception?

A: Women who have a family history of breast cancer should consult with their healthcare provider before using hormonal contraception. While hormonal contraception may increase the risk of breast cancer, it is also a highly effective method of birth control. Women who have a family history of breast cancer should weigh the benefits and risks of hormonal contraception and discuss their options with their healthcare provider.

Q: What are the alternatives to hormonal contraception?

A: There are several alternatives to hormonal contraception, including:

Barrier methods (e.g. condoms, diaphragm)
Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
Sterilization (e.g. tubal ligation, vasectomy)
Natural family planning methods (e.g. fertility awareness methods)
Emergency contraception (e.g. Plan B)

Q: How can women reduce their risk of breast cancer?

A: Women can reduce their risk of breast cancer by:

Getting regular mammograms and breast exams
Avoiding the use of hormonal contraception for extended periods of time
Choosing a healthy lifestyle (e.g. regular exercise, healthy diet)
Avoiding radiation exposure
Getting regular check-ups with their healthcare provider

Q: What is the future of research on the relationship between hormonal contraception and breast cancer?

A: Future research will focus on identifying the specific mechanisms by which hormonal contraception increases the risk of breast cancer, as well as the interaction between hormonal contraception and other risk factors for breast cancer. Additionally, research will aim to develop more effective and safe contraceptive methods that minimize the risk of breast cancer.