A Warning

Oral Contraceptive May Increase Breast Cancer Risk in Women

"According to the National Cancer Institute, several studies have revealed a link between the use of oral contraceptives and an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer. The connection between the development of some cancers and naturally-occurring sex hormones prompted scientists to look into the relationship between the use of oral contraceptives and cancer risk.

The risk of developing breast cancer is often attributed to hormones. Women with high hormonal levels, such as those who begin menstruation before the age of 12 or those who experience menopause after the age of 55 at a young age have an increased risk of breast cancer.

One of the most popular birth control contraceptives in the United States today is known as Drospirenone or more simply as “Yaz.” This drug was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) on March 16, 2006 as an oral contraceptive to prevent against pregnancy, treat acne and treat the symptoms associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). The medication contains the hormone estrogen and a type of progestin called drospirenone to prevent ovulation.

A Black Box warning currently exists for Yaz consumers of the risk of many side effects that may occur in patients who smoke while taking the medication. Research has shown extreme side effects may include increased chances of developing certain types of cancers including: Liver cancer, liver tumors, liver bleeding and breast cancer.

Yaz was formulated to avoid pregnancy by preventing ovulation, the process that occurs in women when a mature egg is released from the ovary. The drug also may treat moderate acne in women 14 years of age or older, who have already experienced their first menstrual cycle and elected to use birth control as a contraceptive.

Side Effects are increased with age and the amount of time the drug is taken. Women over the age of 35 who smoke 15 or more cigarettes daily have their chances of developing the following side effects: stroke, blood clot and heart attack.

Less severe side effects of Yaz include: Vaginal itching, vaginal discharge, Breast tenderness, breast pain, Weight gain or loss Change in appetite, increased hair growth or loss of hair on the head and darkening of facial skin.

By providing FDA alerts, drug information and drug interactions about prescription and over the counter medications, we can ensure an environment where patients have the best knowledge on their medical treatment and health."

Jesse ~Media Manager~Drugwatch.com
jesse@drugwatch.com

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I truly believe that Hormone Replacement Drugs was the beginning of my cancer.