Menu
28/03/2006
Birth control pill 'may reduce cancer risk'
A new contraceptive pill which may also help reduce the risk of breast cancer could be available within five years.
The new pill contains lower doses of the drug mifepristone - also known as RU486 - which is used in the abortion pill in higher doses. It does not contain female hormones, unlike the combined pill - the most popular form of the contraceptive - which contains both progesterone and oestrogen.
The combined pill has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer - believed to be due to the oestrogen - while the progesterone-only mini-pill is less effective and has side effects such as heavy bleeding.
The new pill works by stopping a woman's periods, which could also held to prevent pre-menstrual tension.
The research, led by a team from the University of Edinburgh, involved two trials on around 90 women. Researchers said that the trials had shown the pill worked as well as the conventional pills, but had very few side effects.
Professor David Baird, from the University of Edinburgh, said that animal tests had shown that the pill inhibited the development of breast cancer and that it was theoretically possible that it would have the same impact on humans.
Cancer charities have cautiously welcomed the research, but suggested that larger, long-term studies would be needed to properly determine the effects of the pill.
(KMcA/SP)
The new pill contains lower doses of the drug mifepristone - also known as RU486 - which is used in the abortion pill in higher doses. It does not contain female hormones, unlike the combined pill - the most popular form of the contraceptive - which contains both progesterone and oestrogen.
The combined pill has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer - believed to be due to the oestrogen - while the progesterone-only mini-pill is less effective and has side effects such as heavy bleeding.
The new pill works by stopping a woman's periods, which could also held to prevent pre-menstrual tension.
The research, led by a team from the University of Edinburgh, involved two trials on around 90 women. Researchers said that the trials had shown the pill worked as well as the conventional pills, but had very few side effects.
Professor David Baird, from the University of Edinburgh, said that animal tests had shown that the pill inhibited the development of breast cancer and that it was theoretically possible that it would have the same impact on humans.
Cancer charities have cautiously welcomed the research, but suggested that larger, long-term studies would be needed to properly determine the effects of the pill.
(KMcA/SP)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
04 April 2003
Cervical cancer risk link to contraceptive pill
Women who take the contraceptive pill may increase their risk of cervical cancer, according to a major new study published in the Lancet today.
Cervical cancer risk link to contraceptive pill
Women who take the contraceptive pill may increase their risk of cervical cancer, according to a major new study published in the Lancet today.
23 June 2008
Women Get Pill Online
Women will now be able to get the oral contraceptive pill online without visiting their GP. The medical website DrTHom is offering a three months' supply for £29.99. The service will be initially offered to women already on the pill and then to women who have not taken it before.
Women Get Pill Online
Women will now be able to get the oral contraceptive pill online without visiting their GP. The medical website DrTHom is offering a three months' supply for £29.99. The service will be initially offered to women already on the pill and then to women who have not taken it before.
03 May 2013
10,000 Breast Cancer Cases In UK
The number of women under the age of 50 being diagnosed with breast cancer each year has reached 10,000. According to Cancer Research UK, one in five cases is among those under 50, though fewer than ever are dying of the disease in that age group.
10,000 Breast Cancer Cases In UK
The number of women under the age of 50 being diagnosed with breast cancer each year has reached 10,000. According to Cancer Research UK, one in five cases is among those under 50, though fewer than ever are dying of the disease in that age group.
29 October 2003
Saturated fats could 'slightly increase' breast cancer risk
Eating large amounts of saturated fat could "slightly increase" the risk of breast cancer, according to a review published in the British Journal of Cancer.
Saturated fats could 'slightly increase' breast cancer risk
Eating large amounts of saturated fat could "slightly increase" the risk of breast cancer, according to a review published in the British Journal of Cancer.
17 October 2005
Breast cancer can cost ‘thousands’
Breast cancer can cost sufferers thousands of pounds, a survey by a leading cancer charity has revealed. Macmillan Cancer Relief surveyed 50 cancer patients and found that, on average, they spent almost £2,000 on extra costs during their treatment.
Breast cancer can cost ‘thousands’
Breast cancer can cost sufferers thousands of pounds, a survey by a leading cancer charity has revealed. Macmillan Cancer Relief surveyed 50 cancer patients and found that, on average, they spent almost £2,000 on extra costs during their treatment.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
