[MaxiC]

Is it true that you can no longer take the contraceptive pill if you have Breast Cancer in your family?

Any advice or information is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[Autumn]

I think if there is a history of breast cancer in the family you can still take the pill, but the doctor will keep a closer eye on you...more frequent checkups, blood tests etc.

[Evenstar]

Actually, there is a proven link between the pill and breast cancer. The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a study that concluded that women who have ever used the pill and who also have a first-degree relative with breast cancer are at "a particularly high risk for breast cancer". (published Oct 11, 2000). Do a google search for JAMA and then go to their Past Issues to find this article.

In October of 2005, the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified the pill and hormone replacement therapy as group 1 carcinogens, the highest level of cancer-causing agent. Other group 1 carcinogens include asbestos, formaldehyde, gamma radiation, HPV, and tobacco products. Do a Google search for IARC, then go to their media centre, and then to their press releases for 2005 to find this.

Furthermore, a study published in the Oct 10, 2005 issue of the "Mayo Clinic Proceedings", a peer review journal, concluded that the pill significantly increased the risk of breast cancer in women. Google search for "Mayo Clinic Proceedings" and then go to their past issues to find this one.

I work with doctors in hospitals, and I can tell you from experience that most of them are unaware of the cancer-causing effects of the pill - even the OB/GYN's. With all of the politics surrounding the issue and with the heavily marketed birth control drugs, it is very difficult for busy doctors to get unbiased information on the subject. Do the google searches for the studies I listed above (this forum won't let me post all of the links). I would highly recommend that you do not take the pill for any reason...especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.