Study Finds No Link Between Birth Control Pill and Liver Cancer Risk in Women

Research suggests that thousands of women who take the Pill are not at higher risk of potentially deadly liver cancer. Studies have long indicated a possible link between the Pill and liver tumours due to the hormone oestrogen it contains. However, a large study involving over 1.5 million British women found 'little to no association' between the Pill and liver cancer. Liver cancer is now a significant health concern in the UK, with increasing mortality rates. Cancer Research UK warns that by 2040, it could become the sixth most common cause of cancer death in the UK.

The study, published in The Lancet Oncology, analyzed data from 23 previous studies and the UK biobank health study. While there was no overall link between the Pill and liver cancer, there was a slight increased risk for women using it for longer periods, likely due to other risk factors like Hepatitis B or C infection. Obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are also significant contributors to liver cancer cases.

Despite common misconceptions, the Pill is over 99% effective when used correctly. Side effects may include nausea, breast tenderness, and mood swings, but weight gain is not supported by evidence. Rare side effects include blood clots and a slightly higher risk of breast and cervical cancer.

According to the source: Daily Mail.