Oral contraceptives and breast disease.

ABSTRACT

PIP The influence of oral contraceptives (OCs) on breast disease can vary according to their pharmacologic content and interaction with the patient's endocrine habits. Data on this topic are taken from 1) histologic examinations on patients undergoing contraceptive treatment, 2) studies on experimental toxicity in animals, and 3) epidemiologic examinations. The tests have thus far failed to prove that the administration of OCs causes breast cancer or influences the experimental carcinogenesis in primates or sub-primates. Many epidemiologic studies have even shown a decreased risk of mastopathy in contraceptive users. Not only the doses and hormonal content but also the duration of administration, and any simultaneous or subsequent estrogen administration must be considered when evaluating risk. Combinations of OCs with estrogen predominance must be avoided in patients affected by mastosis.^ieng