[Oral contraception and risk of cancer. Epidemiological aspects of breast and gynecological cancers].

Oral contraceptives are now widely used by healthy women. Their safety for long-term use is an important issue that has been addressed by numerous epidemiological studies. The single main question about the safety of oral contraceptives use is its potential effect on the development of breast cancer. Several meta-analysis have reviewed all published studies. They provide a reassuring picture: oral contraceptive use does not appear associated with breast cancer. However, increased risks have been identified in specific population for long-term users by young women or before the first full term pregnancy. The use of combined oral contraceptives is associated with lower risks both of endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer. Because of methodologic problems, the results on the risk of cervical cancer and its precursors remain unclear.