Cancer of the uterine cervix
Article Abstract:
Cervical cancer is preventable or treatable in most cases, but 4,800 women die annually from the disease in the US. Those most at risk for developing cancer of the uterine cervix include women between the ages of 40 and 60 who have had numerous sex partners or who began having sex at an early age. Younger women can develop cervical cancer, however. Smoking also increases a woman's risk of developing cervical cancer. Though Pap smears have proven to be a valuable diagnostic technique, successfully identifying precursor lesions many years before they become cancerous, a better understanding of the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in cervical cancer may allow for future vaccine development. HPV is very common in a number of forms, some of which are seen in most people with cervical cancer. It is believed that the viral proteins E6 and E7, which are produced by some types of HPV, may play a vital role in the malignant development of cervical lesions.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1996
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Vaginal changes and sexuality in women with a history of cervical cancer
Article Abstract:
Treatment for cervical cancer can damage the vagina and lead to problems with sexual function. Researchers surveyed 332 women treated for cervical cancer and 489 healthy women. About 70% of both groups reported regular sexual intercourse. However, over 20% of the women treated for cervical cancer complained of problems including inadequate vaginal lubrication, short vagina, and an insufficiently elastic vagina. Fewer than 10% of the healthy women reported these problems. Pain during intercourse was also more common in the women treated for cervical cancer.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1999
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Improved treatment for cervical cancer -- concurrent chemotherapy and radiotherapy
Article Abstract:
Cisplatin chemotherapy given at the same time as radiation treatment may improve the prognosis of cervical cancer. Three 1999 studies all showed that combination therapy led to longer survival times in women with various stages of cervical cancer. These promising results prompted the National Cancer Institute to recommend combination therapy. Further research is needed to determine whether combination therapy will be beneficial in women with advanced cervical cancer.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1999
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