There is no conclusive proof, but the medical fraternity is divided on whether infertility treatment in women increase the risk of cancers, especially ovarian and breast cancers.
Infertility clinics, on their part, hardly counsel women about the risks involved. While research findings, mostly done abroad, show that there is no significant risk of cancer, some medical oncologists believe it is best to take preventive measures.
According to medical oncologist V.P. Gangadharan, since it is mostly women under 40 years who go in for infertility treatment, a simple clinical examination and an ultrasound would help clear suspicions, if any.
Those who have a suspicious growth may be subjected to MRI mammogram, he added.
If there is a family history of mutation in breast cancer genes (BRCA), it is better to get expert opinion before going in for infertility treatment, believes Dr. Gangadharan.
Gynaecologist V. Girija says since evidence to support the cancer risk theory for infertility treatments, most of which are hormone related, is lacking, doctors advise screening later in life if the women have been undergoing long-term infertility treatment.
Experts opine that since infertility treatments have been available for some time now, the government could take up the issue in a study by the Indian Council of Medical Research.
As the majority of infertility treatment is done in the private sector, there is scant data on the outcome and follow-up with women who have undergone treatment.
There is also hesitancy among the people to disclose the failed treatment.
Since cancer is not a one-cause disease, most of the health talks revolve around the known preventable risk factors of cancer.
As lifestyle and food habits are the most prominent risk factors for cancer, the emphasis is more on the issues that are affecting people’s lives.
A direct co-relation had been found between oral and lung cancer and tobacco use.
Hence, taking to a non-smoking lifestyle is a preventive step. Diets rich in vegetables and fruits help prevent a number of lifestyle diseases.
“What you eat and don’t eat has a powerful effect on your health,” says Laly K. George, assistant professor, Amrita College of Nursing, who has come out with an anti-cancer diet. “Without knowing, you may be eating foods that fuel cancer and neglecting powerful foods and nutrients that protect you.”
(Reporting by
Shyama Rajagopal)
