Contraceptives and cervical carcinoma.

Abstract

The authors express reservations similar to those expressed by others relating to the recently published rates of carcinoma-in-situ in women using the diaphragm as compared with those using contraceptive oral steroids. Data from the Planned Parenthood Clinics in New York City compared 3 ethnic groups: white Negro and Puerto Rican. All were shown to have variations in incidence rates for invasive cervical carcin oma possibly due to such etiological factors as early sexual activity multiparity and low socioeconomic status. Those using oral contraceptives were 78% of the possibly high risk groups and therefore might be expected to have more cervical carcinoma. The simulataneous random matching procedure employed may have reduced the differences somewhat. Larger groups on an international scale and over extended periods of time are needed for study. It is suggested that the proposed coital mutagen may have gained entry during adolescence or before the use of either a mechanical barrier or oral contraception.