Study Shows Hormonal Birth Control May Increase Breast Cancer Risk
Study Shows Hormonal Birth Control May Increase Breast Cancer Risk

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows an increased breast cancer risk in women who use hormonal birth control. The study examined 1.8 million Danish women starting in 1995.

According to the research, for every 100,000 women using hormonal contraceptives (both estrogen and progesterone), there were 68 cases of breast cancer annually. For women who did not use hormonal birth control, that number was 55 cases a year. Researchers call this a “small but significant risk.”

Because modern contraceptives contain less of the hormone estrogen than birth control pills of previous eras, there was some hope that these methods would come with a lower breast cancer risk. However, the research shows a similar risk to clinical trials of older versions of birth control pills from the 1980s.

The Problem with Progestin

Progestin, the synthetic version of the hormone progesterone, may be a significant factor in breast cancer risk. The study found that women who had an intrauterine device (IUD) that releases progestin face a 21% increase in breast cancer risk, compared with non-users. Additionally, progestin is becoming increasingly common in contraceptives, such as IUDs and “mini pills.”

Older Women Face Higher Breast Cancer Risk

Additionally, older women have a higher risk of breast cancer than do younger women. Thus, the study suggests older women consider switching to a non-hormonal birth control method.

“It is important for women to consider all the research on contraceptives, so they can make informed decisions about their health,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a drug and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today at for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.

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