What's happened
A new study reveals an unexpected association between levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems (IUDs) and an increased risk of breast cancer in women aged 15 to 49. The findings indicate 14 additional cases of breast cancer per 10,000 women using the device over five years, prompting calls for further discussion on contraceptive options.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Dr. Lina Morch, who led the study, stated that the identified risk should be taken seriously, especially for women nearing 40. The New York Times highlighted that despite the increased risk, breast cancer remains rare among women under 50, suggesting that the benefits of hormonal IUDs may still outweigh the risks for many. Dr. Daniel Breitkopf from the Mayo Clinic emphasized the importance of context when discussing these risks, comparing it to doubling lottery odds, which still remain low. This nuanced view reflects the ongoing debate within the medical community regarding hormonal contraceptives and their safety.
How we got here
Previous research suggested that hormonal IUDs would not increase breast cancer risk due to lower hormone exposure compared to oral contraceptives. However, a recent study involving nearly 160,000 women in Denmark challenges this assumption, revealing a significant association.
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