Why a Cancer does it develop? In the case of Cervical cancer, the papillomavirushuman (HPV) is often involved. But this widely spread virus could also be a risk factor for cancers of the anal and genital region in women, according to researchers in gynecology and virology at the University of Copenhagen (Denmark). Their study, published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, reveals that women who have had persistent HPV infections are at greater risk of developing cancer of the vagina, vulva and anus.
A 17 times higher risk for vaginal cancer
To arrive at these results, the researchers sifted through the health data of nearly 2.8 million Danish women born between 1918 and 1990. Women with a history of papillomavirus infection were found to be at risk for up to 17 years. times higher to develop vaginal cancer. This risk is multiplied by 4 for cancer of the vulva and by 4.2 for anal cancer. And this is all the more concerning as this increased risk seems to persist for up to 20 years after infection with HPV. In contrast, scientists did not observe a higher risk for the rectal cancer.
Vaccinate against the papillomavirus to limit cancers?
Last January, researchers at Johns Hopkins University in the United States also showed that HPV could be involved in several cancers of unknown origin, such as cancers of the head and neck area, including cancers of the pharynx, larynx, tongue and throat. a papillomavirus vaccine exists and makes it possible to limit HPV infections and therefore the risk of cancer. In France, this vaccine is currently only recommended for young girls, in adolescence, but some doctors recommend a extension of vaccination to boys to inhibit HPV infections more effectively.
>> To read also:
Cervical cancer: 4 women testify
Female cancers: do you know the symptoms?
Vaccination against papillomavirus recommended for gay men
Papillomavirus: the vaccine does not promote risky sexual behavior
