1
|
Keizer AL, Semmler A, Kok HS, van Kesteren PJM, Huirne JAF, Hehenkamp WJK. Modifiable prognostic factors in uterine fibroid development: a systematic review of literature. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2024; 44:2288225. [PMID: 38102975 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2023.2288225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many risk factors in uterine fibroid development have been identified, but women and their physicians are less aware of the influence of lifestyle on uterine fibroid development. The objective of this systematic review is to investigate and summarize modifiable prognostic factors associated with uterine fibroid development. METHODS Pubmed and Embase were searched for relevant articles according to PRISMA guidelines. References from included articles were screened and when relevant also included. Human in vivo studies on modifiable factors in fibroid development were included. Studies on non-modifiable factors and treatment, in vitro studies and animal studies were excluded. 607 articles were screened and 33 articles were included. Two independent investigators collected data from the report. RESULTS The strongest risk factor for fibroid development was a high BMI, while the strongest protective factors were a high fruit and vegetable intake and high vitamin D intake. CONCLUSION More high-quality studies are necessary to better understand the impact of the abovementioned factors as well as the role they play in the growth of already existing fibroids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alieke L Keizer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annika Semmler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Helen S Kok
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Alrijne Ziekenhuis location Leiden, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J M van Kesteren
- OLVG Location East, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith A F Huirne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter J K Hehenkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wise LA, Coleman CM, Schildroth S, Geller RJ, Lovett SM, Claus Henn B, Calafat AM, Botelho JC, Marsh EE, Noel N, Wegienka GR, Bethea TN, Harmon QE, Baird DD, Wesselink AK. Associations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances with uterine leiomyomata incidence and growth: a prospective ultrasound study. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2024:10.1038/s41370-024-00698-3. [PMID: 38914782 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-024-00698-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals used in commercial and consumer products. OBJECTIVE We evaluated PFAS exposure in relation to incidence and growth of uterine leiomyomata (UL), hormone-dependent neoplasms that are associated with severe gynecologic morbidity. METHODS We studied 1158 participants in the Study of Environment, Lifestyle, and Fibroids, a Detroit-based prospective cohort study of Black females aged 23-35 years at enrollment (2010-2012). At enrollment and four subsequent visits during 10 years of follow-up, participants attended in-person clinic visits, completed questionnaires, provided non-fasting blood samples, and underwent ultrasound for UL detection. We quantified 7 PFAS in baseline plasma samples using mass spectrometry. We used Cox regression and probit Bayesian kernel machine regression to estimate individual and joint effects of PFAS on UL incidence. We fit linear mixed models to estimate effects of individual PFAS on UL growth. We stratified by parity, an important route of PFAS elimination and determinant of UL. RESULTS In individual PFAS analyses, we observed inverse associations for perfluorodecanoate (PFDA; ≥0.3 vs. <0.2 ng/ml: hazard ratio [HR] = 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.54-1.00) and perfluoroundecanoate (detected vs. non-detected: HR = 0.78; 95% CI: 0.61-1.01) and a weak positive association for perfluorohexane sulfonate (≥1 vs. <0.6 ng/ml: HR = 1.17; 95% CI: 0.85-1.61), while perfluorooctane sulfonate, perfluorooctanoate, perfluorononanoate (PFNA), and 2-N-methyl-perfluorooctane sulfonamido acetate (MeFOSAA) showed little association with UL incidence. The PFAS mixture was inversely associated with UL incidence, a finding driven by MeFOSAA and PFDA; however, PFNA was positively associated with UL incidence. The inverse association for PFDA and positive association for PFNA were stronger among nulliparous participants. Most PFAS showed slight inverse associations with UL growth. IMPACT STATEMENT In this prospective ultrasound study of 1158 Black females aged 23-35 years at enrollment, we conducted a mixtures analysis to account for co-pollutant confounding and interaction. MeFOSAA and PFDA concentrations were inversely associated with UL incidence, while PFNA concentrations were positively associated with UL incidence. Concentrations of most PFAS were associated with decreased UL growth. This study contributes data to the sparse literature on PFAS exposure and UL development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Chad M Coleman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Samantha Schildroth
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ruth J Geller
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sharonda M Lovett
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Birgit Claus Henn
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Julianne Cook Botelho
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Erica E Marsh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nyia Noel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Traci N Bethea
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities Research, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Center, Washington DC, WA, USA
| | - Donna D Baird
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fruh V, Wesselink AK, Schildroth S, Bethea TN, Geller RJ, Calafat AM, Coull BA, Wegienka G, Harmon QE, Baird DD, Wise LA, Claus Henn B. Non-persistent endocrine disrupting chemical mixtures and uterine leiomyomata in the study of environment, lifestyle and fibroids (SELF). CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 357:142050. [PMID: 38631496 PMCID: PMC11254384 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Results of studies investigating associations between individual endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and incidence of uterine leiomyomata (UL), a hormone-dependent gynecological condition, have been inconsistent. However, few studies have evaluated simultaneous exposure to a mixture of EDCs with UL incidence. METHODS We conducted a case-cohort analysis (n = 708) of data from the Study of the Environment, Lifestyle and Fibroids (SELF), a prospective cohort study. Participants were aged 23-35 years at enrollment, had an intact uterus, and identified as Black or African American. We measured biomarker concentrations of 21 non-persistent EDCs, including phthalates, phenols, parabens, and triclocarban, in urine collected at baseline, 20-month, and 40-month clinic visits. We ascertained UL incidence and characteristics using ultrasounds at baseline and approximately every 20 months through 60 months. We used probit Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR-P) to evaluate joint associations between EDC mixtures with cumulative UL incidence. We estimated the mean difference in the probit of UL incidence over the study period, adjusting for baseline age, education, years since last birth, parity, smoking status and body mass index. We converted probit estimates to odds ratios for ease of interpretation. RESULTS We observed that urinary concentrations of the overall EDC mixture were inversely associated with UL incidence in the overall mixtures model, with the strongest inverse associations at the 70th percentile of all biomarkers compared with their 50th percentile (odds ratio = 0.59; 95% confidence interval: 0.36, 0.96). Strongest contributors to the joint association for the mixture were bisphenol S (BPS), ethyl paraben (EPB), bisphenol F (BPF) and mono (2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP), which each demonstrated inverse associations except for MECPP. There was suggestive evidence of an interaction between MECPP and EPB. CONCLUSION In this prospective ultrasound study, we observed evidence of an inverse association between the overall mixture of urinary biomarker concentrations of non-persistent EDCs with UL incidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Fruh
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Samantha Schildroth
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Traci N Bethea
- Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities Research, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ruth J Geller
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- Division of Laboratory Sciences, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Brent A Coull
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ganesa Wegienka
- Henry Ford Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Epidemiology Branch, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Donna D Baird
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Epidemiology Branch, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Birgit Claus Henn
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mitro SD, Wise LA, Waetjen LE, Lee C, Zaritsky E, Harlow SD, Solomon DH, Thurston RC, El Khoudary SR, Santoro N, Hedderson MM. Hypertension, Cardiovascular Risk Factors, and Uterine Fibroid Diagnosis in Midlife. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e246832. [PMID: 38625699 PMCID: PMC11022113 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.6832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Fibroids are benign neoplasms associated with severe gynecologic morbidity. There are no strategies to prevent fibroid development. Objective To examine associations of hypertension, antihypertensive treatment, anthropometry, and blood biomarkers with incidence of reported fibroid diagnosis in midlife. Design, Setting, and Participants The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation is a prospective, multisite cohort study in the US. Participants were followed-up from enrollment (1996-1997) through 13 semiannual visits (1998-2013). Participants had a menstrual period in the last 3 months, were not pregnant or lactating, were aged 42 to 52 years, were not using hormones, and had a uterus and at least 1 ovary. Participants with prior fibroid diagnoses were excluded. Data analysis was performed from November 2022 to February 2024. Exposures Blood pressure, anthropometry, biomarkers (cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein), and self-reported antihypertensive treatment at baseline and follow-up visits were measured. Hypertension status (new-onset, preexisting, or never [reference]) and hypertension treatment (untreated, treated, or no hypertension [reference]) were categorized. Main Outcomes and Measures Participants reported fibroid diagnosis at each visit. Discrete-time survival models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs for associations of time-varying hypertension status, antihypertensive treatment, anthropometry, and biomarkers with incident reported fibroid diagnoses. Results Among 2570 participants without a history of diagnosed fibroids (median [IQR] age at screening, 45 [43-48] years; 1079 [42.1%] college educated), 526 (20%) reported a new fibroid diagnosis during follow-up. Risk varied by category of hypertension treatment: compared with those with no hypertension, participants with untreated hypertension had a 19% greater risk of newly diagnosed fibroids (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 0.91-1.57), whereas those with treated hypertension had a 20% lower risk (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.56-1.15). Among eligible participants with hypertension, those taking antihypertensive treatment had a 37% lower risk of newly diagnosed fibroids (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.38-1.05). Risk also varied by hypertension status: compared with never-hypertensive participants, participants with new-onset hypertension had 45% greater risk of newly diagnosed fibroids (HR, 1.45; 95% CI, 0.96-2.20). Anthropometric factors and blood biomarkers were not associated with fibroid risk. Conclusions and Relevance Participants with untreated and new-onset hypertension had increased risk of newly diagnosed fibroids, whereas those taking antihypertensive treatment had lower risk, suggesting that blood pressure control may provide new strategies for fibroid prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna D. Mitro
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland
| | - Lauren A. Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - L. Elaine Waetjen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Davis
| | - Catherine Lee
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland
| | - Eve Zaritsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland
| | - Siobán D. Harlow
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
| | | | - Rebecca C. Thurston
- Department of Psychology and Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Samar R. El Khoudary
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Nanette Santoro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Langton CR, Harmon QE, Baird DD. Family History and Uterine Fibroid Development in Black and African American Women. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e244185. [PMID: 38568693 PMCID: PMC10993075 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.4185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Uterine fibroids are an understudied condition, with earlier onset in Black than White women. Prior studies of the importance of family history on fibroid development are limited by reliance on hospital-based participant selection, poorly defined measures of family history, and nonsystematic fibroid assessment. Objective To examine whether family history is a risk factor for fibroid development using prospective ultrasonography data to identify incident fibroids and measure fibroid growth and standardized methods to ascertain family history. Design, Setting, and Participants This prospective community cohort of Black and African American women from the Detroit, Michigan, area was conducted from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2018, using 4 standardized ultrasonographic examinations during 5 years to detect fibroids 0.5 cm or larger in diameter and measure fibroid growth. Data analysis was performed between May 2022 and January 2024. Exposures Maternal fibroid history data were gathered directly from participants' mothers when possible (1425/1628 [88%]), and 2 exposure variables were created: maternal history of fibroids (diagnosed vs not diagnosed) and age at maternal fibroid diagnosis (20-29, 30-39, or ≥40 years vs not diagnosed). Main Outcomes and Measures Fibroid incidence was assessed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models; fibroid growth was calculated as change in log-volume per 18 months for fibroids matched at successive ultrasonograms. Results A total of 1610 self-identified Black and/or African American women aged 23 to 35 years (mean [SD] age, 29.2 [3.4] years) with no prior clinical diagnosis of fibroids at enrollment were available for analysis. Of 1187 fibroid-free participants at enrollment, 442 (37%) had mothers who were diagnosed with fibroids. Compared with participants without a maternal history of fibroids, those reporting maternal history had an adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) of 1.21 (95% CI, 0.96-1.52). Risk was strongest in those whose mothers were diagnosed at a younger age (20-29 years: AHR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.11-2.21; 30-39 years: AHR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.71-1.49; ≥40 years: AHR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.81-1.52; P = .053 for trend). Fibroid growth rates were higher when mothers were diagnosed with fibroids vs not diagnosed (8.0% increased growth; 95% CI, -1.2% to 18.0%). Conclusions and Relevance In this prospective cohort study, results supported maternal history of fibroids as a risk factor for incident fibroids, especially when mothers were diagnosed at a younger age. Maternal history was also associated with increased fibroid growth. Asking patients about their family history of fibroids could encourage patient self-advocacy and inform care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine R. Langton
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Quaker E. Harmon
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Donna D. Baird
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Laily A, Nair I, Shank SE, Wettschurack C, Khamis G, Dykstra C, DeMaria AL, Kasting ML. Enhancing Uterine Fibroid Care: Clinician Perspectives on Diagnosis, Disparities, and Strategies for Improving Health Care. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS (NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.) 2024; 5:293-304. [PMID: 38558944 PMCID: PMC10979696 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2023.0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Objective To explore clinicians' perspectives on diagnosing, treating, and managing uterine fibroids, identifying gaps and challenges in health care delivery, and offering recommendations for improving care. Materials and Methods A qualitative design was used to conduct 14 semistructured interviews with clinicians who treat fibroid patients in central Indiana. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. Constant comparative analysis was used to identify emergent themes. Results Four themes emerged. (1) Lack of patient fibroid awareness: Patients lacked fibroid awareness, leading to challenges in explaining diagnoses and treatment. Misconceptions and emotional distress highlighted the need for better education. (2) Inequities in care and access: Health care disparities affected Black women and rural patients, with transportation, scheduling delays, and financial constraints hindering access. (3) Continuum of care: Clinicians prioritized patient-centered care and shared decision-making, tailoring treatment based on factors like severity, location, size, cost, fertility goals, and recovery time. (4) Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) impact: The pandemic posed challenges and opportunities, prompting telehealth adoption and consideration of nonsurgical options. Conclusions Clinician perspectives noted patient challenges with fibroids, prompting calls for enhanced education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and accessible care to address crucial aspects of fibroid management and improve women's well-being. Practice Implications Clinicians identified a lack of patient awareness and unequal access to fibroid care, highlighting the need for improved education and addressing disparities. Findings also emphasized the importance of considering multidimensional aspects of fibroid care and adapting to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, recommending broader education, affordability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research for better fibroid health care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfu Laily
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Isha Nair
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Sophie E. Shank
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Cameron Wettschurack
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Grace Khamis
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Chandler Dykstra
- Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Andrea L. DeMaria
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Monica L. Kasting
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tang NH, Fang CL, Hu WH, Tian L, Lin C, Hu HQ, Shi QL, Xu F. Age-stratified risk factors of re-intervention for uterine fibroids treated with high-intensity focused ultrasound. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024; 164:1212-1219. [PMID: 37953647 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the rate and risk factors of re-intervention for patients with uterine fibroids (UFs) undergoing high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) at different age distributions. METHOD A retrospective cohort study was conducted in Nanchong Central Hospital, recruiting a total of 672 patients with UFs undergoing HIFU from June 2017 to December 2019. Using univariate and multivariate logistic regression, risk factors for re-intervention were assessed. RESULTS Among 401 patients with UFs who completed the follow-up visits (median 47 months, range 34-61), 50 (12.46%) patients underwent re-intervention (such as high-intensity focused ultrasound, uterine artery embolization, myomectomy and hysterectomy). In the different age distributions, the re-intervention rate was 17.5% (34/194) in patients aged <45 years and 7.7% (16/207) in those aged ≥45 years. Regarding the younger patient group (aged <45 years), hypo- or iso-intensive fibroids in T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (T2WI) intensity may elevate the risk of re-intervention for UFs (odds ratio [OR] 2.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.37-6.62; P = 0.007). Among the older patient group (aged ≥45 years), preoperative anemic patients had an increased risk of re-intervention compared with those without anemia (OR 3.30, 95% CI 1.01-10.37; P = 0.041). CONCLUSION The re-intervention rate of HIFU decreased with increasing age. Among those aged <45 years, T2WI intensity was the independent risk factor for re-intervention, and among those aged ≥45 years, preoperative anemic status may be related to re-intervention outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neng-Huan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Nanchong Central Hospital of North Sichuan Medical University, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chun-Ling Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Nanchong Central Hospital of North Sichuan Medical University, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Hao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Nanchong Central Hospital of North Sichuan Medical University, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuan Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Nanchong Central Hospital of North Sichuan Medical University, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Quan Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Nanchong Central Hospital of North Sichuan Medical University, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiu-Ling Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Nanchong Central Hospital of North Sichuan Medical University, Nanchong, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Robbins SJ, Brown SE, Stennett CA, Tuddenham S, Johnston ED, Wnorowski AM, Ravel J, He X, Mark KS, Brotman RM. Uterine fibroids and longitudinal profiles of the vaginal microbiota in a cohort presenting for transvaginal ultrasound. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296346. [PMID: 38315688 PMCID: PMC10843103 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis, characterized in part by low levels of vaginal Lactobacillus species, has been associated with pro-inflammatory cytokines which could fuel uterine fibroid development. However, prior work on the associations between uterine fibroids and vaginal bacteria is sparse. Most studies have focused on assessment of individual taxa in a single sample. To address research gaps, we sought to compare short, longitudinal profiles of the vaginal microbiota in uterine fibroid cases versus controls with assessment for hormonal contraceptives (HCs), a possible confounder associated with both protection from fibroid development and increases in Lactobacillus-dominated vaginal microbiota. This is a secondary analysis of 83 reproductive-age cisgender women who presented for transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and self-collected mid-vaginal swabs daily for 1-2 weeks before TVUS (Range: 5-16 days, n = 697 samples). Sonography reports detailed uterine fibroid characteristics (N = 21 cases). Vaginal microbiota was assessed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and longitudinal microbiota profiles were categorized by hierarchical clustering. We compared longitudinal profiles of the vaginal microbiota among fibroid cases and controls with exact logistic regression. Common indications for TVUS included pelvic mass (34%) and pelvic pain (39%). Fibroid cases tended to be older and report Black race. Cases less often reported HCs versus controls (32% vs. 58%). A larger proportion of cases had low-Lactobacillus longitudinal profiles (48%) than controls (34%). In unadjusted analysis, L. iners-dominated and low-Lactobacillus profiles had higher odds of fibroid case status compared to other Lactobacillus-dominated profiles, however these results were not statistically significant. No association between vaginal microbiota and fibroids was observed after adjusting for race, HC and menstruation. Results were consistent when number of fibroids were considered. There was not a statistically significant association between longitudinal profiles of vaginal microbiota and uterine fibroids after adjustment for common confounders; however, the study was limited by small sample size.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J. Robbins
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Sarah E. Brown
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Christina A. Stennett
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Susan Tuddenham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth D. Johnston
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Amelia M. Wnorowski
- Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Xin He
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Katrina S. Mark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Rebecca M. Brotman
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hill S, Shetty MK. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding in Reproductive Age Women: Role of Imaging in the Diagnosis and Management. Semin Ultrasound CT MR 2023; 44:511-518. [PMID: 37832698 DOI: 10.1053/j.sult.2023.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is defined by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics as bleeding from the uterine corpus that is abnormal in regularity, volume, frequency, or duration and occurs in the absence of pregnancy. AUB is a common condition that affects about a third of women in their lifetime. Abnormal bleeding in duration, quantity, or timing consists of 2 categories, predictable cyclical heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and irregular non-cyclical intermenstrual bleeding (IMB). The most common causes of HMB include fibroids and adenomyosis and IMB is commonly caused by ovulatory dysfunction such as in polycystic ovaries, endometrial polyp, or an IUD. A pelvic ultrasound is the initial and often only imaging modality needed in the imaging evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding and can accurately identify the common causes of abnormal uterine bleeding in the reproductive age group.
Collapse
|
10
|
Warwar R, Zupan AM, Nietupski C, Manzanares M, Hurley EG, Schutte SC. Uterine fibroid cell cytoskeletal organization is affected by altered G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:327-338. [PMID: 37797815 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether cyclic strain affects fibroid cell cytoskeletal organization, proliferation, and collagen synthesis differently than myometrial cells. DESIGN A basic science study using primary cultures of patient-matched myometrial and fibroid cells. SETTING Academic laboratory. PATIENT(S) Premenopausal women undergoing myomectomy or hysterectomy for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids. INTERVENTION(S) Application of uniaxial strain patterns mimicking periovulation, menses, or dysmenorrhea using the Flexcell tension system or static control. Secondarily, inhibition of G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Cell alignment, cell number, and collagen content. RESULT(S) Menses-strained cells demonstrated the most variation in cell alignment, cell proliferation, and procollagen content between myometrial and fibroid cells. Procollagen content decreased in myometrial cells with increasing strain amplitude and decreasing frequency. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 inhibition decreases cellular alignment in the presence of strain. CONCLUSION(S) Mechanotransduction affecting cytoskeletal arrangement through the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway is altered in fibroid cells. These results highlight the importance of incorporating mechanical stimulation into the in vitro study of fibroid pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Warwar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Andreja Moset Zupan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Carolyn Nietupski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Maricela Manzanares
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Emily G Hurley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Stacey C Schutte
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wesselink AK, Wegienka G, Coleman CM, Geller RJ, Harmon QE, Upson K, Lovett SM, Claus Henn B, Marsh EE, Noel NL, Baird DD, Wise LA. A prospective ultrasound study of cigarette smoking and uterine leiomyomata incidence and growth. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 229:151.e1-151.e8. [PMID: 37148957 PMCID: PMC10524545 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine leiomyomata (fibroids) are common, benign neoplasms that contribute substantially to gynecologic morbidity. Some existing epidemiologic studies indicate that cigarette smoking is associated with lower uterine leiomyomata risk. However, no prospective studies have systematically screened an entire study population for uterine leiomyomata using transvaginal ultrasound or evaluated the association between cigarette smoking and uterine leiomyomata growth. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the association between cigarette smoking and uterine leiomyomata incidence and growth in a prospective ultrasound study. STUDY DESIGN We enrolled 1693 residents from the Detroit metropolitan area into the Study of Environment, Lifestyle, and Fibroids during 2010 to 2012. Eligible participants were aged 23 to 34 years, had an intact uterus but no previous diagnosis of uterine leiomyomata, and self-identified as Black or African American. We invited participants to complete a baseline visit and 4 follow-up visits over approximately 10 years. At each visit, we used transvaginal ultrasound to assess uterine leiomyomata incidence and growth. Participants provided extensive self-reported data throughout follow-up including exposures to active and passive cigarette smoking in adulthood. We excluded participants who did not return for any follow-up visits (n=76; 4%). We fit Cox proportional hazards regression models to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the association between time-varying smoking history and incidence rates of uterine leiomyomata. We fit linear mixed models to estimate the percentage difference and 95% confidence intervals for the association between smoking history and uterine leiomyomata growth. We adjusted for sociodemographic, lifestyle, and reproductive factors. We interpreted our results based on magnitude and precision rather than binary significance testing. RESULTS Among 1252 participants without ultrasound evidence of uterine leiomyomata at baseline, uterine leiomyomata were detected in 394 participants (31%) during follow-up. Current cigarette smoking was associated with a lower uterine leiomyomata incidence rate (hazard ratio, 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.49-0.92). Associations were stronger among participants who had smoked for longer durations (≥15 years vs never: hazard ratio, 0.49; 95% confidence interval, 0.25-0.95). The hazard ratio for former smokers was 0.78 (95% confidence interval, 0.50-1.20). Among never smokers, the hazard ratio for current passive smoke exposure was 0.84 (95% confidence interval, 0.65-1.07). Uterine leiomyomata growth was not appreciably associated with current (percent difference, -3%; 95% confidence interval, -13% to 8%) or former (percent difference, -9%; 95% confidence interval, -22% to 6%) smoking. CONCLUSION We provide evidence from a prospective ultrasound study that cigarette smoking is associated with lower uterine leiomyomata incidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA.
| | - Ganesa Wegienka
- Department for Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, MI
| | - Chad M Coleman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Ruth J Geller
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Kristen Upson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
| | - Sharonda M Lovett
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Birgit Claus Henn
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Erica E Marsh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Nyia L Noel
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA
| | - Donna D Baird
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lovett SM, Sandler DP, O’Brien KM. Hysterectomy, bilateral oophorectomy, and breast cancer risk in a racially diverse prospective cohort study. J Natl Cancer Inst 2023; 115:662-670. [PMID: 36806439 PMCID: PMC10248837 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djad038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gynecologic surgery is hypothesized to reduce risk of breast cancer; however, associations may be modified by subsequent hormone use. Our objective was to examine the association between gynecologic surgery and breast cancer incidence considering the use of hormone therapy. METHODS The Sister Study is a prospective cohort of initially breast cancer-free women aged 35-74 years with a sister who had breast cancer. We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between gynecologic surgery (no surgery, hysterectomy only, bilateral oophorectomy with or without hysterectomy) and incident breast cancer among 50 701 women. RESULTS History of gynecologic surgery was common, with 13.8% reporting hysterectomy only and 18.1% reporting bilateral oophorectomy with or without hysterectomy. During follow-up (median = 11.4 years), 3948 cases were diagnosed. Compared with no surgery, bilateral oophorectomy was inversely associated with breast cancer (HR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.83 to 1.00), and hysterectomy alone was positively associated (HR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.23). Compared with no surgery and no hormone therapy, bilateral oophorectomy combined with estrogen only therapy (HR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.74 to 0.94) was inversely associated with breast cancer, while hysterectomy combined with estrogen plus progestin therapy was positively associated with breast cancer (HR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.55). CONCLUSIONS We observed an inverse association between bilateral oophorectomy and breast cancer risk. The positive association between hysterectomy and breast cancer may be due to concomitant estrogen plus progestin therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharonda M Lovett
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dale P Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Katie M O’Brien
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yin K, Whitaker L, Hojo E, McLenachan S, Walker J, McKillop G, Stubbs C, Priest L, Cruz M, Roberts N, Critchley H. Measurement of changes in uterine and fibroid volume during treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2023:hoad021. [PMID: 37304815 PMCID: PMC10247393 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does application of an unbiased method for analysis of magnetic resonance (MR) images reveal any effect on uterine or fibroid volume from treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) with three 12-week courses of the selective progesterone receptor modulator ulipristal acetate (SPRM-UPA)? SUMMARY ANSWER Application of an unbiased method for analysis of MR images showed that treatment of HMB with SPRM-UPA was not associated with a significant reduction in the volume of the uterus or in the volume of uterine fibroids. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY SPRM-UPA shows therapeutic efficacy for treating HMB. However, the mechanism of action (MoA) is not well understood and there have been mixed reports, using potentially biased methodology, regarding whether SPRM-UPA has an effect on the volume of the uterus and fibroids. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION In a prospective clinical study (with no comparator), 19 women with HMB were treated over a period of 12 months with SPRM-UPA and uterine and fibroid size were assessed with high resolution structural MRI and stereology. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS A cohort of 19 women aged 38-52 years (8 with and 11 without fibroids) were treated with three 12-week courses of 5 mg SPRM-UPA given daily, with four weeks off medication in-between treatment courses. Unbiased estimates of the volume of uterus and total volume of fibroids were obtained at baseline, and after 6 and 12 months of treatment, by using the Cavalieri method of modern design-based stereology in combination with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Bland-Altman plots showed good intra-rater repeatability and good inter-rater reproducibility for measurement of the volume of both fibroids and the uterus. For the total patient cohort, two-way ANOVA did not show a significant reduction in the volume of the uterus after two or three treatment courses of SPRM-UPA (P = 0.51), which was also the case when the groups of women with and without fibroids were considered separately (P = 0.63). One-way ANOVA did not show a significant reduction in total fibroid volume in the eight patients with fibroids (P = 0.17). LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The study has been performed in a relatively small cohort of women and simulations that have subsequently been performed using the acquired data have shown that for three time points and a group size of up to 50, with alpha (Type I Error) and beta (Type II Error) set to 95% significance and 80% power, respectively, at least 35 patients would need to be recruited in order for the null hypothesis (that there is no significant reduction in total fibroid volume) to be potentially rejected. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The imaging protocol that we have developed represents a generic paradigm for measuring the volume of the uterus and uterine fibroids that can be readily incorporated in future studies of medical treatments of HMB. In the present study, SPRM-UPA failed to produce a significant reduction in the volume of the uterus or the total volume of fibroids (which were present in approximately half of the patients) after either two or three 12-week courses of treatment. This finding represents a new insight in respect of the management of HMB using treatment strategies that target hormone-dependence. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The UPA Versus Conventional Management of HMB (UCON) trial was funded by the EME Programme (Medical Research Council (MRC) and National Institutes of Health Research (NIHR)) (12/206/52). The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the Medical Research Council, National Institute for Health Research, or Department of Health and Social Care.Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre grants to the Centre for Reproductive Health (CRH) (G1002033 and MR/N022556/1) are also gratefully acknowledged. H.C. has clinical research support for laboratory consumables and staff from Bayer AG and provides consultancy advice (All paid to Institution) for Bayer AG, PregLem SA, Gedeon Richter, Vifor Pharma UK Ltd, AbbVie Inc., and Myovant Sciences GmbH. H.C. has received royalties from UpToDate for an article on abnormal uterine bleeding. L.W. has received grant funding from Roche Diagnostics (Paid to Institution). All other authors have no conflicts to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER The study reported here is an embedded mechanism of action study (no comparator) within the UCON clinical trial (registration ISRCTN: 20426843).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Yin
- Edinburgh Imaging Facility QMRI, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - L Whitaker
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - E Hojo
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - S McLenachan
- Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - J Walker
- Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - G McKillop
- Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - C Stubbs
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - L Priest
- Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - M Cruz
- Departamento de Matemáticas Estadística y Computación, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | - N Roberts
- Edinburgh Imaging Facility QMRI, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - H Critchley
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lou Z, Huang Y, Li S, Luo Z, Li C, Chu K, Zhang T, Song P, Zhou J. Global, regional, and national time trends in incidence, prevalence, years lived with disability for uterine fibroids, 1990-2019: an age-period-cohort analysis for the global burden of disease 2019 study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:916. [PMID: 37208621 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15765-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine fibroids are the most common benign neoplasm of the uterus and a major source of morbidity for women. We report an overview of trends in uterine fibroids of incidence rate, prevalence rate, years lived with disability (YLDs) rate in 204 countries and territories over the past 30 years and associations with age, period, and birth cohort. METHODS The incident case, incidence rate, age-standardized rate (ASR) for incidence, prevalent case, prevalence rate, ASR for prevalence, number of YLDs, YLD rate, and ASR for YLDs were derived from the Global Burden of Disease 2019 (GBD 2019) study. We utilized an age-period-cohort (APC) model to estimate overall annual percentage changes in the rate of incidence, prevalence, and YLDs (net drifts), annual percentage changes from 10 to 14 years to 65-69 years (local drifts), period and cohort relative risks (period/cohort effects) between 1990 and 2019. RESULTS Globally, the incident cases, prevalent cases, and the number of YLDs of uterine fibroids increased from 1990 to 2019 with the growth of 67.07%, 78.82% and 77.34%, respectively. High Socio-demographic Index (SDI) and high-middle SDI quintiles with decreasing trends (net drift < 0.0%), and increasing trends (net drift > 0.0%) were observed in middle SDI, low-middle SDI, and low SDI quintiles in annual percentage change of incidence rate, prevalence rate and YLDs rate over the past 30 years. There were 186 countries and territories that showed an increasing trend in incidence rate, 183 showed an increasing trend in prevalence rate and 174 showed an increasing trend in YLDs rate. Moreover, the effects of age on uterine fibroids increased with age and peaked at 35-44 years and then declined with advancing age. Both the period and cohort effects on uterine fibroids showed increasing trend in middle SDI, low-middle SDI and low SDI quintiles in recent 15 years and birth cohort later than 1965. CONCLUSIONS The global burden of uterine fibroids is becoming more serious in middle SDI, low-middle SDI and low SDI quintiles. Raising awareness of uterine fibroids, increasing medical investment and improving levels of medical care are necessary to reduce future burden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Lou
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yizhou Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuting Li
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhou Luo
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chunming Li
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ketan Chu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peige Song
- School of Public Health and Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianhong Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Langton CR, Gerety M, Harmon QE, Baird DD. Keloids, hypertrophic scars, and uterine fibroid development: a prospective ultrasound study of Black and African American women. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:172-180. [PMID: 37028513 PMCID: PMC10200770 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the association between keloids, hypertrophic scars, and uterine fibroid incidence as well as growth. Both keloids and fibroids are fibroproliferative conditions that have been reported to be more prevalent among Blacks than Whites, and they share similar fibrotic tissue structures, including extracellular matrix composition, gene expression, and protein profiles. We hypothesized that women with a history of keloids would have greater uterine fibroid development. DESIGN A prospective community cohort study (enrollment 2010-2012) with 4 study visits over 5 years to conduct standardized ultrasounds to detect and measure fibroids ≥0.5 cm in diameter, assess the history of keloid and hypertrophic scars, and update covariates. SETTING Detroit, Michigan area. PATIENTS A total of 1,610 self-identified Black and/or African American women aged 23-35 years at enrollment without a previous clinical diagnosis of fibroids. EXPOSURE(S) Keloids (raised scars that grow beyond the margins of the original injury) and hypertrophic scars (raised scars that stay within the bounds of the original injury). Because of the difficulties in distinguishing keloids and hypertrophic scars, we separately examined the history of keloids and the history of either keloids or hypertrophic scars (any abnormal scarring) and their associations with fibroid incidence and growth. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Fibroid incidence (new fibroid after a fibroid-free ultrasound at enrollment) was assessed using Cox proportional-hazards regression. Fibroid growth was assessed using linear mixed models. The estimates for the change in log volume per 18 months were converted to the estimated percentage difference in volume for scarring vs. no-scarring. Both incidence and growth models were adjusted for time-varying demographic, reproductive, and anthropometric factors. RESULT(S) Of the 1,230 fibroid-free participants, 199 (16%) reported ever having keloids, 578 (47%) reported keloids or hypertrophic scars, and 293 (24%) developed incident fibroids. Neither keloids (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.04; 95% confidence interval: 0.77, 1.40) nor any abnormal scarring (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.10; 95% confidence interval: 0.88, 1.38) were associated with fibroid incidence. Fibroid growth differed little by scarring status. CONCLUSION(S) Despite molecular similarities, self-reported keloid and hypertrophic scars did not show an association with fibroid development. Future research may benefit from the examination of dermatologist-confirmed keloids or hypertrophic scars; however, our data suggest little shared susceptibility for these 2 types of fibrotic conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine R Langton
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
| | - Meghan Gerety
- Department of Statistics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Donna D Baird
- Women's Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Huang D, Magaoay B, Rosen MP, Cedars MI. Presence of Fibroids on Transvaginal Ultrasonography in a Community-Based, Diverse Cohort of 996 Reproductive-Age Female Participants. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2312701. [PMID: 37163265 PMCID: PMC10173016 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.12701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Fibroids are benign uterine tumors that can cause significant morbidity. Knowledge on fibroid prevalence, especially in the asymptomatic population and in Asian and Hispanic or Latina individuals, is limited, and a better understanding of affected groups will improve timely diagnosis and motivate appropriate recruitment in clinical trials to reduce health disparities. Objective To estimate the prevalence of fibroids in a diverse cohort of female individuals. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study included female individuals not seeking treatment for fertility or other conditions who were prospectively recruited in an academic medical center in San Francisco, California. Effort was made to recruit an equal proportion of participants from 4 large racial and ethnic groups in the United States (Asian-Chinese, Black or African American, Hispanic or Latina, and White) and across 4 equal age groups between 25 and 45 years. All participants reported regular menses (21-35 days), had not used estrogen- or progestin-containing medications in the 3 months prior to enrollment, and denied history of pelvic surgery. The assessment of ultrasonography results was part of an ongoing longitudinal cohort, with initial recruitment from October 2006 to September 2012. Data analysis was performed in April to September 2022. Main Outcomes and Measures Fibroid presence and burden as assessed by transvaginal ultrasonography. Results A total of 996 female participants were included in the analysis, including 229 (23.0%) Asian-Chinese, 249 (25.0%) Black or African American, 237 (23.8%) Hispanic or Latina, and 281 (28.2%) White individuals. Mean (SD) age was 34.8 (5.7) years in Asian-Chinese participants, 35.4 (6.1) years in Black or African American participants, 34.8 (5.3) years in Hispanic or Latina participants, and 35.3 (5.0) years in White participants. Fibroids were present in 21.8% (95% CI, 16.7%-27.8%) of Asian-Chinese participants, 35.7% (95% CI, 29.8%-42.0%) of Black or African American participants, 12.7% (95% CI, 8.7%-17.6%) of Hispanic or Latina participants, and 10.7% (95% CI, 7.3%-14.9%) of White participants. Black or African American and Asian-Chinese participants were more likely to have fibroids than White participants (Black or African American: adjusted odds ratio [OR], 4.72 [95% CI, 2.72-8.18]; P < .001; Asian-Chinese: adjusted OR, 3.35 [95% CI, 1.95-5.76]; P < .001). In those with fibroids, the proportion with multiple fibroids were 48.3% in Black or African American participants, 33.3% in White participants, 33.3% in Hispanic or Latina participants, and 26.0% in Asian-Chinese participants (P = .06). The largest mean (SD) fibroid diameter was 3.9 (1.9) cm in Black or African American participants, 3.2 (1.6) cm in Asian-Chinese participants, 3.2 (1.6) cm in White participants, and 3.0 (1.4) cm in Hispanic or Latina participants (P = .03). Conclusions and Relevance In this study of female participants in a nonclinical setting, Black or African American and Asian-Chinese participants were disproportionately affected by uterine fibroids. Hispanic or Latina participants had similar fibroid burden to White participants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Huang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Brady Magaoay
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Mitchell P Rosen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Marcelle I Cedars
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mitro SD, Sundaram R, Buck Louis GM, Peddada S, Chen Z, Kannan K, Gleason JL, Zhang C, Grantz KL. Associations of Pregnancy Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Concentrations and Uterine Fibroid Changes across Pregnancy: NICHD Fetal Growth Studies - Singletons Cohort. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2023; 131:57007. [PMID: 37224071 PMCID: PMC10208432 DOI: 10.1289/ehp11606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibroids (hormonally responsive benign tumors) often undergo volume changes in pregnancy. Because per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) disrupt hormonal signaling, they might affect fibroid growth. We assessed associations between PFAS and fibroid changes in pregnancy. METHODS We analyzed seven PFAS, including perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), and perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnDA), in plasma collected at 10-13 wk gestation from 2,621 women in the NICHD Fetal Growth Studies - Singletons cohort (2009-2013). Sonographers recorded fibroid number and volume of the three largest fibroids during up to six timed ultrasounds. Generalized linear models assessed associations of baseline log 2 - transformed PFAS and fibroid number, volume, and presence, and weighted quantile sum regression evaluated the PFAS mixture. Generalized linear mixed models with random intercepts assessed associations of PFAS and longitudinal fibroid number and total volume. Volume analyses were stratified by total volume at first visualization [equivalent to a fibroid < 1 cm (small), 1 to < 3 cm (medium), or ≥ 3 cm (large) in diameter]. RESULTS Fibroid prevalence was 9.4% (n = 245 women). PFAS were not associated with changes in fibroid number, but were associated with volume trajectory, depending on baseline volume. Among women with small volume, PFAS were associated with fibroid growth: Each doubling in PFHxS and PFOS concentrations was associated with 3.6% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.2, 7.0 and 5.2% (95% CI: - 0.4 , 11.1)] greater weekly fibroid growth, respectively. Among women with medium volume, PFAS were associated with shrinking: Doublings in PFOS, PFDA, and PFUnDA concentrations were associated with 1.9% (95% CI: 0.4, 3.3), 1.2% (95% CI: 0.1, 2.4), and 1.6% (95% CI: 0.4, 2.8) greater weekly fibroid volume reduction, respectively. DISCUSSION Certain PFAS were associated with fibroid growth among women with small fibroids and decreases among women with medium fibroids. PFAS were not associated with fibroid prevalence or number; therefore, PFAS may influence prevalent fibroids rather than initiating fibroid development. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP11606.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna D Mitro
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Rajeshwari Sundaram
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Germaine M Buck Louis
- College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia, USA
| | - Shyamal Peddada
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Zhen Chen
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Kurunthachalam Kannan
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jessica L Gleason
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Cuilin Zhang
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore
| | - Katherine L Grantz
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mitro SD, Sundaram R, Chen Z, Peddada S, Buck Louis GM, Zhang C, Grewal J, Gleason JL, Sciscione AC, Grantz KL. Leiomyomata, neonatal anthropometry, and pregnancy outcomes in singleton pregnancies. Ann Epidemiol 2023; 80:43-52. [PMID: 36822279 PMCID: PMC10040437 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2023.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the relationship of fibroids in pregnancy, preterm birth, and neonatal anthropometry. METHODS Pregnant women (n = 2578) in the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Fetal Growth Studies-Singletons cohort had up to six ultrasounds across pregnancy. Sonographers recorded fibroid number and volume of the three largest fibroids. Trained personnel measured neonatal anthropometry. Linear and logistic regression compared neonatal anthropometry and pregnancy outcomes among pregnancies with versus without fibroids. Causal mediation analysis evaluated preterm birth as a mediator. RESULTS Average birthweight did not differ by fibroid status. However, compared with pregnancies without fibroids, neonates from pregnancies with single fibroids had 0.3- (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.0, 0.5) cm larger head circumferences; those with multiple fibroids had 0.3- (95% CI, 0.0, 0.6) cm larger arm circumferences; and those with small fibroid volume had 0.7- (95% CI, 0.3, 1.2) cm larger head, 0.4- (95% CI, 0.0, 0.8) cm larger arm, and 0.7- (95% CI, 0.1, 1.3) cm larger thigh circumferences. Presence versus absence of fibroids was associated with 1.73-2.65 times higher odds of preterm birth. Differences in preterm birth did not explain fibroid-anthropometry results. CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence that fibroids negatively impacted fetal growth; instead, fibroids were associated with increased head, arm, and thigh circumferences. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00912132.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna D Mitro
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Rajeshwari Sundaram
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Zhen Chen
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Shyamal Peddada
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | | | - Cuilin Zhang
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore
| | - Jagteshwar Grewal
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | - Jessica L Gleason
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD
| | | | - Katherine L Grantz
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Seidel V, Wernecke KD, Bellingkrodt AL, Armbrust R, David M. Sonographic Monitoring of Growth of Uterine Myomas in Untreated Women and Respective Influence Factors. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2023; 83:446-452. [PMID: 37034415 PMCID: PMC10076097 DOI: 10.1055/a-1996-2980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Research Question What are the growth patterns of uterine myomas in untreated premenopausal women? Which factors influence the growth rate of uterine myomas in premenopausal women? Method All premenopausal women who presented to the outpatient myoma consultation clinic between January 2005 and March 2022 at least twice were screened. Exclusion criteria were hormonal therapy, pregnancy, and postmenopausal status. Results A total of 189 patients were included in our study which focused on the respective largest uterine myoma of each woman. An ideal linear growth over time was assumed. Most myomas (82%) increased in size. The mean annual growth of these myomas was 68.42 cm 3 . The most important prognostic factor for growth was the initial size of the myoma. The absolute annual growth of myomas measuring > 50 cm 3 at first presentation was higher compared to smaller myomas (p < 0.001). The relative annual growth rate was highest for myomas measuring between 20 and 50 cm 3 at the initial presentation (p = 0.003). The relative annual growth rate in women older than 40 years was significantly lower than that in women below the age of 40 years (p = 0.003). Conclusion Overall, it is difficult to make an individual prognosis about the growth pattern of a uterine myoma in a specific patient. It should be noted especially in asymptomatic patients that spontaneous regression of myoma size can also occur in premenopausal women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vera Seidel
- Obstetrics, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Klinik für Gynäkologie, Charité Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Klaus Dieter Wernecke
- Institut für Biometrie und Klinische Epidemiologie, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- SOSTANA GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Robert Armbrust
- Klinik für Gynäkologie, Charité Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias David
- Klinik für Gynäkologie, Charité Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence/Korrespondenzadresse Prof. Matthias David Charité Campus Virchow-KlinikumKlinik für GynäkologieAugustenburger
Platz 113353 BerlinGermany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Langton CR, Harmon QE, Upson K, Baird DD. Soy-Based Infant Formula Feeding and Uterine Fibroid Development in a Prospective Ultrasound Study of Black/African-American Women. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2023; 131:17006. [PMID: 36696103 PMCID: PMC9875846 DOI: 10.1289/ehp11089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine fibroids are highly prevalent, benign tumors. They are the leading indication for hysterectomy, and Black women are disproportionally burdened. Soy-based infant formula contains phytoestrogens, and exposure during sensitive developmental windows may adversely affect the developing uterus; early phytoestrogen treatment in rodent studies led to detrimental uterine effects, including increased fibroid risk in Eker rats. Limited epidemiological studies also have suggested increased fibroid development with soy formula infant feeding. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to examine the association between soy formula feeding in infancy and fibroid development in adulthood. METHODS We evaluated this association among 1,610 Black/African-American women age 23-35 y in the Study of Environment, Lifestyle & Fibroids (SELF). Soy formula feeding data was gathered directly from the participants' mothers (89%). A standardized ultrasound examination was conducted during 4 clinic visits over 5 y to detect fibroids ≥0.5cm in diameter. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between soy formula feeding and incident fibroids adjusted for early-life and adult factors. Fibroid growth was calculated as change in log-volume for fibroids matched at successive visits. RESULTS Of 1,121 fibroid-free participants at baseline, 150 (13%) were ever fed soy formula as infants, and 269 (24%) developed incident fibroids. We did not observe an association between ever being fed soy formula and incident fibroid risk (HR=1.08; 95% CI: 0.75, 1.54). However, participants fed soy formula within 2 months of birth and for >6 months (n=53) had an elevated risk of fibroid incidence in comparison with those never fed soy formula (HR=1.56; 95% CI: 0.92, 2.65). Fibroid growth rates did not differ. DISCUSSION Adding support to limited human data, this prospective fibroid study found that soy-based formula feeding during infancy was associated with a suggestive increase in risk of ultrasound-identified incident fibroids in adulthood. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP11089.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine R. Langton
- Women’s Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Quaker E. Harmon
- Women’s Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kristen Upson
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Donna D. Baird
- Women’s Health Group, Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Sadick M, Hofmann L, Weiß C, Tuschy B, Schönberg SO, Zöllner FG. Long-term evaluation of uterine fibroid embolisation using MRI perfusion parameters and patient questionnaires: preliminary results. BMC Med Imaging 2022; 22:214. [PMID: 36471287 PMCID: PMC9724260 DOI: 10.1186/s12880-022-00926-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE) is an established treatment method for symptomatic uterine myomas. This study evaluates the efficacy of UFE using objective magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data for size and perfusion analysis as well as patient questionnaires assessing fibroid-related symptoms. METHOD Patients underwent MR-Angiography before UFE and 4 days, 6 and 12 months after the procedure. The images were evaluated using dedicated software. Patient questionnaires were completed before UFE and at 12 months follow-up, focussing on the embolization procedure and symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. Statistical analysis of the questionnaires was performed using paired sample t-test and Wilcoxon signed rank test, while Kruskal-Wallis test and Friedman test were applied for MRI-analysis. RESULTS Eleven women were included. There was a significant reduction in fibroid-related symptoms. The volume reduction after 12 months was significant in both, uterus and myomas, after an initial increase in uterine volume at the first post-interventional MRI. The perfusion analysis showed that blood flow to the fibroids could be significantly reduced up to 12 months after UFE while uterine tissue was not affected. CONCLUSION This study shows that uterine fibroid embolisation induces a significant long-term decrease in myoma size and perfusion while healthy uterine tissue remains unaffected. Fibroid-related symptoms are reduced for the sake of improved quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maliha Sadick
- grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Clinic for Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Leonie Hofmann
- grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Clinic for Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christel Weiß
- grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Department for Medical Statistics and Biomathematics, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Benjamin Tuschy
- grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Department for Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stefan O. Schönberg
- grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Clinic for Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Frank G. Zöllner
- grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Computer Assisted Clinical Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany ,grid.7700.00000 0001 2190 4373Mannheim Institute for Intelligent Systems in Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wegienka G, Havstad S, Coleman C, Cooper T, Wesselink A, Upson K, Marsh EE, Vines AI, Harmon Q, Baird D, Wise LA. Ultrasound-Confirmed, Age-Specific Uterine Leiomyoma Incidence in a Cohort of Black Individuals. Obstet Gynecol 2022; 140:1042-1048. [PMID: 36357982 PMCID: PMC9712257 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the age-specific incidence of uterine leiomyomas identified by transvaginal ultrasonography among participants in SELF (Study of Environment, Lifestyle & Fibroids). METHODS SELF is a longitudinal cohort study of individuals aged 23-35 years who self-identified as Black. Participants were recruited from the Detroit, Michigan, area and underwent up to five transvaginal ultrasonograms over a period of up to 10 years to identify uterine leiomyomas. We randomly imputed incidence dates between the last ultrasonogram date in which no leiomyomas were detected and the date of the ultrasonogram in which leiomyomas were first detected. We used Poisson regression to estimate age-specific incidence rates per 1,000 person-years with 95% CIs. The rates were then compared with those of the BWHS (Black Women's Health Study) and the NHS II (Nurses' Health Study II)-two prospective cohort studies based on self-reported leiomyoma diagnoses. RESULTS In this cohort, 1,693 participants completed a baseline interview and ultrasonogram. We excluded 385 (22.7%) participants with leiomyomas detected during baseline, seven participants whose ultrasonograms were poor quality, and 60 participants with only a baseline ultrasonogram. Among the remaining 1,241 participants, the overall incidence rate was 53.9 cases per 1,000 person-years (95% CI 48.6-59.6). The age-specific incidence rates (cases/1,000 person-years) were: younger than 30 years: 49.7, 95% CI 40.9-59.9; 30-34 years: 55.2, 95% CI 47.0-64.3; and 35-39 years: 58.2, 95% CI 47.3-70.9. Among participants aged younger than 30 years, the incidence rate in SELF was more than double that of the BWHS or the NHS II. CONCLUSION The high age-specific leiomyoma incidence rates in this prospective ultrasound-based study indicate that many young Black individuals with leiomyomas go undiagnosed. These data suggest that individuals could benefit from ultrasound screening when they experience symptoms compatible with leiomyomas (eg, heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia, pelvic pain).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ganesa Wegienka
- Department of Public Health Sciences and the Division of Ultrasound, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, and the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan; the Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts; the Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, the Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, and the Department of Health and Human Services, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Harmon QE, Patchel SA, Denslow S, LaPorte F, Cooper T, Wise LA, Wegienka G, Baird DD. Vitamin D and uterine fibroid growth, incidence, and loss: a prospective ultrasound study. Fertil Steril 2022; 118:1127-1136. [PMID: 36150919 PMCID: PMC9771933 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.08.851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fibroid treatments that have few side-effects and can preserve fertility are a clinical priority. We studied the association between serum vitamin D and uterine fibroid growth, incidence, and loss. DESIGN A prospective community cohort study (enrollment 2010-2012) with 4 study visits over 5 years to conduct standardized ultrasounds, measure 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), and update covariates. SETTING Detroit, Michigan area. PATIENTS Self-identified African American or Black women aged 23-35 at enrollment without previous clinical diagnosis of fibroids. INTERVENTION(S) Serum 25(OH)D measured using immunoassay or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The primary outcomes were fibroid growth, as measured by change in log volume per 18 months, and fibroid incidence (first detection of fibroid in previously fibroid-free uterus). Adjusted growth estimates from linear mixed models were converted to estimated difference in volume for high vs. low 25(OH)D. Incidence differences were estimated as hazard ratios from age-specific Cox regression. A secondary outcome fibroid loss (reduction in fibroid number between visits), was modeled using Poisson regression. Covariates (reproductive and hormonal variables, demographics, body mass index, current smoking) and 25(OH)D were modeled as time-varying factors. RESULT(S) At enrollment among 1,610 participants with ≥1 follow-up ultrasound, mean age was 29.2 years, 73% had deficient vitamin D (<20ng/mL), and only 7% had sufficient vitamin D (≥30ng/mL). Serum 25(OH)D ≥20ng/mL compared with <20ng/mL was associated with an estimated 9.7% reduction in fibroid growth (95% confidence interval [CI]: -17.3%, -1.3%), similar to the minimally adjusted estimate -8.4% (95% CI: -16.4, 0.3). Serum 25(OH)D ≥30ng/mL compared with <30ng/mL was associated with an imprecise 22% reduction in incidence (adjusted hazard ratio=0.78; 95% CI: 0.47, 1.30), similar to the unadjusted estimate of 0.84 (95% CI: 0.51, 1.39). The >30ng/mL group also had a 32% increase in fibroid loss (adjusted risk ratio=1.32; 95% CI: 0.95, 1.83). CONCLUSION(S) Our data support the hypothesis that high concentrations of vitamin D decrease fibroid development but are limited by the few participants with serum 25(OH)D ≥30ng/mL. Interventional trials that raise and maintain 25(OH)D concentrations >30ng/mL and then prospectively monitor fibroid development are needed to further assess supplemental vitamin D efficacy and determine optimal treatment protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quaker E Harmon
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina.
| | - Stacy A Patchel
- Public Health and Epidemiology Practice at Westat, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Sheri Denslow
- Social & Scientific Systems, Inc., a DLH Holdings company, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Frankie LaPorte
- Social & Scientific Systems, Inc., a DLH Holdings company, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Tracy Cooper
- Division of Ultrasound, Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ganesa Wegienka
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Donna D Baird
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Paul EN, Grey JA, Carpenter TJ, Madaj ZB, Lau KH, Givan SA, Burns GW, Chandler RL, Wegienka GR, Shen H, Teixeira JM. Transcriptome and DNA methylome analyses reveal underlying mechanisms for the racial disparity in uterine fibroids. JCI Insight 2022; 7:160274. [PMID: 36066972 PMCID: PMC9714787 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.160274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) affect Black women disproportionately compared with women of other races and ethnicities in terms of prevalence, incidence, and severity of symptoms. The causes of this racial disparity are essentially unknown. We hypothesized that myometria of Black women are more susceptible to developing fibroids, and we examined the transcriptomic and DNA methylation profiles of myometria and fibroids from Black and White women for comparison. Myometrial samples cluster by race in both their transcriptome and DNA methylation profiles, whereas fibroid samples only cluster by race in the latter. More differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected in the Black and White myometrial sample comparison than in the fibroid comparison. Leiomyoma gene set expression analysis identified 4 clusters of DEGs, including a cluster of 24 genes with higher expression in myometrial samples from Black women. One of the DEGs in this group, von Willibrands factor (VWF), was significantly hypomethylated in both myometrial samples from Black women and in all fibroids at 2 CpG probes that are near a putative enhancer site and that are correlated with VWF expression levels. These results suggest that the molecular basis for the disparity in fibroid disease between Black and White women could be found in the myometria before fibroid development and not in the fibroids themselves.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel N. Paul
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Joshua A. Grey
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Tyler J. Carpenter
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Zachary B. Madaj
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Kin H. Lau
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Scott A. Givan
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Gregory W. Burns
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Ronald L. Chandler
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Ganesa R. Wegienka
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Hui Shen
- Department of Epigenetics, Van Andel Institute, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Jose M. Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Mitro SD, Peddada S, Chen Z, Buck Louis GM, Gleason JL, Zhang C, Grantz KL. Natural history of fibroids in pregnancy: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Fetal Growth Studies - Singletons cohort. Fertil Steril 2022; 118:656-665. [PMID: 35981916 PMCID: PMC9529811 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the natural history of fibroids in pregnancy in a racially diverse cohort and explore whether fibroid changes were associated with participant characteristics. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Twelve clinical sites. PATIENT(S) Pregnant women (n = 2774; 27% non-Hispanic White, 28% non-Hispanic Black, 29% Hispanic, 17% Asian/Pacific Islander) who had up to 6 obstetric ultrasounds in gestational weeks 10-41. INTERVENTION(S) Sonographers recorded fibroid number and volume of the 3 largest fibroids at each visit. Generalized linear mixed models estimated the trajectories of fibroid number and total volume (overall and stratified by total volume at first visualization: equivalent to a fibroid of <1 cm [small], 1 to <3 cm [medium], or ≥3 cm [large] in diameter). We tested the interactions between the trajectories and race/ethnicity, age (<26, 26-30, 31-34, and ≥35 years), body mass index (<25, 25-29.9, and ≥30 kg/m2), previous miscarriage, parity, and fetal sex, adjusted for total volume at first visualization. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Average change in total fibroid volume during pregnancy. RESULT(S) Overall, 9.6% (266/2,774) of women had a visualized fibroid at any time during pregnancy, including 9% (67/745) of non-Hispanic White women, 14% (106/770) of non-Hispanic Black women, 6% (47/794) of Hispanic women, and 10% (46/465) of Asian or Pacific Islander women. The mean total fibroid volume decreased by 1.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], -1.9%, -0.2%) per week, with a variation in starting total volume. On average, the total volume increased by 2.0% (95% CI, -0.3%, 4.5%) per week among women with small volume; decreased by 0.5% (95% CI, -2.0%, 1.0%) per week among women with medium volume; and decreased by 2.2% (95% CI, -3.4%, -1.0%) per week among women with large volume at first visualization. The volume change also varied by race or ethnicity, parity, age, and miscarriage history. For example, non-Hispanic Black women's total fibroid volume decreased more than those of non-Hispanic White, Hispanic and Asian/Pacific Islander women (-2.6%, 0.1%, 0.5%, and 0.9% average change per week, respectively). The visualized fibroid number declined on an average by 1.2% per week (95% CI, -1.9%, -0.5%) without significant variation by demographic characteristics. CONCLUSION(S) The total fibroid volume declined on average throughout pregnancy. However, summarizing across all fibroids disguises substantial heterogeneity by starting total fibroid volume and maternal characteristics. The findings may be a useful reference for clinicians to anticipate how fibroids may change in obstetric patients. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT00912132.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna D Mitro
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Shyamal Peddada
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Zhen Chen
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Jessica L Gleason
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Cuilin Zhang
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Singapore
| | - Katherine L Grantz
- Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Xu W, Chen W, Chen J, Hu L, Su X, Nie Y, Shi Q. Adaptability and clinical applicability of UFS-QoL in Chinese women with uterine fibroid. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:372. [PMID: 36088381 PMCID: PMC9463796 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01963-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
To demonstrate the applicability and adaptability of uterine fibroid symptoms and quality of life (UFS-QoL) in assessing the efficacy of treatment in Chinese populations.
Methods
This is a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study involving 20 Chinese hospitals and 2,411 Chinese women with fibroids. Patients completed UFS-QoL and short form-36 (SF-36) at pre-surgery, 6-month and 12-month post-treatments. Internal consistency of the quality of life assessed by the UFS-QoL questionnaire using Cronbach’s α coefficient (α). Principal axis factor analysis with orthogonal rotation was established to investigate relationships between items and subscales. Concurrent validity refers to the Spearman's correlation estimate of the correlation between UFS-QoL and SF-36. Using effect size and standardized response mean, the ability to detect change was evaluated by comparing pre- and post-6-month and post-12-month treatment scores.
Results
Exploratory factor analysis yielded six subscales (concern, activities, energy/mood, control, self-consciousness, and sexual function) with eigenvalues > 1 in UFS-QoL. A 63.61% total variance was explained by the test items. Ceiling effects of self-consciousness and sexual functioning subscales from UFS-QoL were > 15%. UFS-QoL showed a positive and moderate correlation with SF-36 to establish good concurrent validity. And showed good consistency reliability (Cronbach α > 0.7 in all subscales), ability to detect change after treatment. This excluded self-consciousness (α = 0.56), which demonstrated the lowest effect size (0.38) and standardized response means (0.38) 6- and 12-months post-treatment.
Conclusions
Symptom severity, activity, and mood subscales of the Chinese UFS-QoL were valid and reliable. However, the self-consciousness domain needs further investigation on cultural adaptation, such as cognitive debriefing for how Chinese interpret these questions.
Collapse
|
27
|
Yang Q, Ciebiera M, Bariani MV, Ali M, Elkafas H, Boyer TG, Al-Hendy A. Comprehensive Review of Uterine Fibroids: Developmental Origin, Pathogenesis, and Treatment. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:678-719. [PMID: 34741454 PMCID: PMC9277653 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnab039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are benign monoclonal neoplasms of the myometrium, representing the most common tumors in women worldwide. To date, no long-term or noninvasive treatment option exists for hormone-dependent uterine fibroids, due to the limited knowledge about the molecular mechanisms underlying the initiation and development of uterine fibroids. This paper comprehensively summarizes the recent research advances on uterine fibroids, focusing on risk factors, development origin, pathogenetic mechanisms, and treatment options. Additionally, we describe the current treatment interventions for uterine fibroids. Finally, future perspectives on uterine fibroids studies are summarized. Deeper mechanistic insights into tumor etiology and the complexity of uterine fibroids can contribute to the progress of newer targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiwei Yang
- Qiwei Yang, Ph.D. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, M167, Billings, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Michal Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, ul. Cegłowska 80, 01-809, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Mohamed Ali
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| | - Hoda Elkafas
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Egyptian Drug Authority, formerly National Organization for Drug Control and Research, Cairo 35521, Egypt
| | - Thomas G Boyer
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229-3900, USA
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Correspondence: Ayman Al-Hendy, MD, Ph.D. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, 5841 S. Maryland Ave, N112, Peck Pavilion, Chicago, IL 60637. USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Use and the Development and Progression of Uterine Leiomyoma. Obstet Gynecol 2022; 139:797-807. [PMID: 35576339 PMCID: PMC9015023 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Investigate the association between use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) (an injectable progestin-only contraceptive) and leiomyoma development. METHODS We conducted a cohort study in the Detroit, Michigan, area that involved four clinic visits at 20-month intervals over 5 years (2010-2018) and used a standardized ultrasonography protocol to prospectively measure leiomyomas 0.5 cm or more in diameter. Participants were 1,693 self-identified Black women aged 23-35 years with no prior leiomyoma diagnosis and no hysterectomy. For this substudy, years since last use of DMPA was ascertained from questionnaire data at every visit. Leiomyoma incidence was defined as the first visit with an observed leiomyoma among women who were leiomyoma-free at enrollment. Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate associations were examined with Cox models. Leiomyoma growth was calculated as the change in log-volume for leiomyomas matched at successive visits and was modeled using linear mixed models accounting for clustered data. Leiomyoma loss, defined as a reduction in leiomyoma number in successive visits, was modeled using Poisson regression. All models used time-varying exposure and covariates. RESULTS Of participants with at least one follow-up visit (N=1,610), 42.9% had ever used DMPA. Participants exposed to DMPA within the previous 2 years experienced reduced leiomyoma development during the subsequent observation interval compared with never users, including lower leiomyoma incidence (5.2% vs 10.7%), adjusted hazard ratio 0.6 (95% CI 0.4-1.0), 42.0% lower leiomyoma growth (95% CI -51.4 to -30.7) and 60% greater leiomyoma loss (adjusted risk ratio 1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.2). Excess leiomyoma loss was also seen for those who used DMPA 2-4 years before the visit compared with never users, 2.1-fold increase (95% CI 1.4-3.1). CONCLUSION Recent use of DMPA was associated with reduced leiomyoma development and increased leiomyoma loss. Such changes in early leiomyoma development in young women could delay symptom onset and reduce the need for invasive treatment.
Collapse
|
29
|
Moore KR, Harmon QE, Zhao S, Taylor BD, Baird DD. Bacterial Vaginosis and Prospective Ultrasound Measures of Uterine Fibroid Incidence and Growth. Epidemiology 2022; 33:415-421. [PMID: 35067565 PMCID: PMC10029099 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000001463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine fibroids often cause intolerable symptoms leading to invasive treatments, most commonly hysterectomy. Reproductive tract infections are hypothesized to influence uterine fibroid development, but few studies exist, especially for the highly prevalent condition bacterial vaginosis (BV). Both fibroids and BV have documented racial-ethnic disparities, with higher burden in Blacks. METHODS With prospective data from a community-based study (four standardized ultrasound examinations over 5 years) in young Black women, we examined baseline BV associations with fibroid incidence and growth. We computed adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incidence comparing BV and no BV (Nugent score ≥7 vs. <7) using Cox proportional hazards models among 1027 women fibroid-free at baseline. Fibroid growth associations were based on linear mixed models estimating volume change between ultrasounds indexed to 18 months. We then expressed BV association as estimated percent difference in growth per 18 months, comparing exposed and unexposed. RESULTS There were n = 247 incident fibroids and 1181 growth measures; average fibroid growth per 18 months was a 78% (95% CI: 69 to 87) increase in volume. BV prevalence was 51% and not associated with fibroid incidence (aHR: 1.0, 95% CI: 0.80 to 1.4) or growth (estimated % difference in growth, -3% (95% CI: -12 to 6). CONCLUSIONS In this first study (to our knowledge) of ultrasound-monitored fibroid development and Nugent-assessed BV, we found no evidence to support the hypothesis that BV increased risk of fibroid incidence or growth or BV's role in the high burden of fibroids in Black women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen R. Moore
- Epidemiology Branch A3-05, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Quaker E. Harmon
- Epidemiology Branch A3-05, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Shanshan Zhao
- Biostatistics Branch, A3-05, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Brandie D. Taylor
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Current address: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Division of Basic and Translational Research, University of Texas Medical Branch MRB 11.138A, 301 University BLVD. Galveston TX, 77555
| | - Donna D. Baird
- Epidemiology Branch A3-05, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bernardi LA, Waldo A, Berrocal VJ, Wise LA, Marsh EE. Association between uterine fibroids and antimüllerian hormone concentrations among African American women. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:832-840. [PMID: 35105447 PMCID: PMC8983564 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the extent to which uterine fibroids are associated with antimüllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Baseline data from the Study of the Environment, Lifestyle, and Fibroids, which is a 5-year longitudinal study of African American women. PATIENT(S) A total of 1,643 women aged 23-35 years without a known history of fibroids. EXPOSURE Fibroid presence. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The primary outcome was percent difference in the mean AMH concentration between participants with fibroids and those without fibroids. The secondary outcomes were percent differences in the mean AMH concentrations in participants with different numbers, sizes, types, and positions of fibroids and the percent difference in the mean AMH concentration in participants with different uterine volumes. RESULT(S) At least 1 fibroid was identified on ultrasound in 362 (22%) participants. There was a small difference in the mean AMH concentrations in participants with fibroids (age-adjusted model: -4.6%, 95% confidence interval (CI): -14.5% to 6.5%; multivariable model: -4.6%, 95% CI: -14.4% to 6.3%). The mean AMH concentrations were found to decrease with increasing fibroid number. Although differences in AMH concentrations were not statistically significant, compared with no fibroids, the mean percent differences in AMH concentrations for 1, 2-3, and ≥4 fibroids were -1.2% (95% CI: -13.2% to 12.5%), -7.1% (95% CI: -23.3% to 12.5%), and -17.5% (95% CI: -38.2% to 10.0%), respectively. There were no consistent associations between AMH concentrations and fibroid location, size, or uterine volume. CONCLUSION(S) The presence of fibroids was not materially associated with AMH concentrations. Other than a monotonic inverse relationship between fibroid number and AMH concentrations, no other fibroid characteristics were consistently or appreciably associated, although associations were imprecise.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lia A Bernardi
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Anne Waldo
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | | | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Erica E Marsh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ali M, Chen HY, Chiang YF, Badary OA, Hsia SM, Al-Hendy A. An evaluation of relugolix/estradiol/norethindrone acetate for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in premenopausal women. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:421-429. [PMID: 35068291 PMCID: PMC8866208 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2030705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uterine Fibroids (UFs) are the most predominant benign tumor in women who are coming of reproductive age, and causes intense economic load priced in billions of US dollars. Historically, surgery has been the main definitive treatment, albeit less attractive nowadays, especially for women with future fertility plans. Therefore, studies to explore the pharmacological treatment options are increasing especially as those that are currently available are limited for short-term use only. AREAS COVERED This drug evaluation features the clinical results from previous and ongoing studies of relugolix, in combination with the add back therapy of estradiol (E2) and norethindrone acetate (NETA), as a novel, orally administered, nonpeptide antagonist of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) in premenopausal women with UFs. EXPERT OPINION The combination of relugolix/E2/NETA is an encouraging, well-tolerated and noninvasive pharmacological option for UFs patients. Relugolix induced a concentration-dependent decrease in HMB. However, it should be used with hormonal add-back therapy (E2+ NETA) to avoid induced hypoestrogenic side effects, importantly bone mineral density loss. Moreover, symptoms will likely resume shortly after the termination of the relugolix combination administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.,Center of Drug Discovery Research and Development, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hsin-Yuan Chen
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Fen Chiang
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Osama A Badary
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Shih-Min Hsia
- School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Graduate Institute of Metabolism and Obesity Sciences, College of Nutrition, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,School of Food and Safety, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan.,Nutrition Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Manuel EC, Plowden TC, Valbuena FM, Bryce RL, Barick AA, Ramakrishnan A, Carnethon MR, Neff LM, Baird DD, Marsh EE. The Environment, Leiomyomas, Latinas, and Adiposity Study: rationale and design. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:392.e1-392.e12. [PMID: 33974903 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2021.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine leiomyomas, commonly known as fibroids, are benign tumors in postmenarchal females. By the age of 35 years, approximately 30% of females will have fibroids, and by the age of 50 years, the prevalence approaches 70% with some studies reporting >85% prevalence in African American females. Previous studies evaluating the prevalence of fibroids have largely relied on self-reported fibroid diagnoses, which could have falsely underestimated prevalence because many females with fibroids are asymptomatic. Despite known differences in fibroid prevalence by race, there are very limited data on fibroid prevalence by ethnicity. The Latino population is the largest ethnic minority in the United States, yet there is no large study that utilizes ultrasound to confirm the presence of fibroids in Latina/Latinx females. In addition, fibroids have been associated with obesity and with diabetes mellitus, but the data have been inconsistent and at times conflicting. OBJECTIVE The Environment, Leiomyomas, Latinas, and Adiposity Study was designed to quantify the prevalence of uterine fibroids among Latina/Latinx females and understand the relationships between obesity, glucose dysregulation, and fibroid prevalence and growth. This article presents the study's design and reports early enrollment data. STUDY DESIGN The Environment, Leiomyomas, Latinas, and Adiposity Study is a 5-year longitudinal cohort study based in Southeast Michigan with the goal of recruiting 600 Latina/Latinx females between the ages of 21 and 50 years. Given the recruitment goals, developing a respectful, transparent, and trusting relationship between the study investigators and the community was a major priority. Thus, a community-engaged research approach was utilized in the design of the Environment, Leiomyomas, Latinas, and Adiposity Study. A community advisory board containing community leaders, largely from the Latinx community, provided input and direction during the entirety of the Environment, Leiomyomas, Latinas, and Adiposity Study design and rollout process. A minimum of 3 visits (orientation and consent, baseline, follow-up) will be conducted for each participant, with baseline and follow-up visits approximately 18 to 30 months apart. At each visit, interviewer and self-administered surveys will assess sociodemographic factors, health behaviors, health history, and social determinants of health. In addition, participants undergo a pelvic ultrasound examination and biologic samples are collected. RESULTS Using community-engaged approaches, we have successfully enrolled 633 Latina/Latinx females. The mean participant age is 37.5±7.04 years. The mean body mass index is 30.0±6.54 kg/m2. First study visits have been initiated. CONCLUSION The objective of the Environment, Leiomyomas, Latinas, and Adiposity Study is to address the knowledge gap regarding uterine fibroids in the Latina/Latinx population. The Environment, Leiomyomas, Latinas, and Adiposity Study will generate ultrasound-confirmed evidence of the prevalence and growth patterns of uterine fibroids in this specific population while also examining the associations between obesity and laboratory-confirmed glucose dysregulation with uterine fibroid prevalence and growth patterns.
Collapse
|
33
|
Genital Chlamydia trachomatis Seroprevalence and Uterine Fibroid Development: Cohort Study of Young African-American Women. Microorganisms 2021; 10:microorganisms10010010. [PMID: 35056458 PMCID: PMC8780141 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Few studies have investigated the 1930s hypothesis that reproductive tract infections are risk factors for fibroid development. In our 2017 cross-sectional analysis from the Study of Environment, Lifestyle, and Fibroids (2010–2018), a large Detroit community-based cohort of 23–35 year-old African-American women with ultrasound fibroid screening, we found an inverse association between seropositivity for genital Chlamydia trachomatis (gCT) infection and fibroids. With prospective data from the cohort (standardized ultrasounds every 20 months over 5 years), we examined gCT’s associations with fibroid incidence (among 1158 women fibroid-free at baseline) and growth. We computed adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incidence by gCT serostatus using Cox proportional hazards models. GCT’s influence on growth was assessed by estimating the difference between fibroid size change for seropositive vs. seronegative between successive ultrasounds (1254 growth measures) using a linear mixed model. Growth was scaled to change over 18 months. GCT seropositivity was not associated with fibroid incidence (aHR, 1.0 95% CI: 0.79, 1.29) or growth (4.4%, 95% CI: −5.02, 14.64). The current evidence based on both biomarker gCT data, which can capture the common undiagnosed infections, and prospective ultrasound data for fibroids suggests that Chlamydia is unlikely to increase fibroid risk.
Collapse
|
34
|
Wesselink AK, Weuve J, Fruh V, Bethea TN, Claus Henn B, Harmon QE, Hauser R, Williams PL, Calafat AM, McClean M, Baird DD, Wise LA. Urinary concentrations of phenols, parabens, and triclocarban in relation to uterine leiomyomata incidence and growth. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:1590-1600. [PMID: 34366109 PMCID: PMC8627427 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the association of urinary concentrations of phenols, parabens, and triclocarban with incidence and growth of uterine leiomyomata (UL; fibroids). DESIGN Case-cohort study, nested within the Study of Environment, Lifestyle, and Fibroids, a prospective cohort study. SETTING Clinic visits at baseline and every 20 months for 60 months. PATIENT(S) 754 Black women aged 23-35 years residing in the Detroit, Michigan area (enrolled during 2010-2012). INTERVENTION None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) At each study visit, women underwent transvaginal ultrasound for measurement of UL incidence and growth and provided urine specimens in which we quantified concentrations of seven phenols, four parabens, and triclocarban. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) characterizing the relation of urinary biomarker concentrations with UL incidence during the 60 months of follow-up. In a subset of UL detected and measured at multiple time points, we used linear regression to assess the associations between biomarker concentrations and UL growth. RESULT(S) Urinary biomarker concentrations were generally inversely associated with UL incidence, but the associations were weak and nonmonotonic. For example, hazard ratios comparing concentrations ≥90th with <50th percentile were 0.77 (95% CI: 0.46, 1.27) for bisphenol A, 0.72 (95% CI: 0.40, 1.28) for bisphenol S, and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.43, 1.33) for methylparaben. Biomarker concentrations were not strongly associated with UL growth. CONCLUSION(S) In this study of reproductive-aged Black women, urinary phenols, parabens, and triclocarban biomarkers were neither strongly nor consistently associated with UL incidence and growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Jennifer Weuve
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Victoria Fruh
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Traci N Bethea
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C
| | - Birgit Claus Henn
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Paige L Williams
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Antonia M Calafat
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Michael McClean
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Donna D Baird
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Cytogenomic Profile of Uterine Leiomyoma: In Vivo vs. In Vitro Comparison. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121777. [PMID: 34944592 PMCID: PMC8698342 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We performed a comparative cytogenomic analysis of cultured and uncultured uterine leiomyoma (UL) samples. The experimental approach included karyotyping, aCGH, verification of the detected chromosomal abnormalities by metaphase and interphase FISH, MED12 mutation analysis and telomere measurement by Q-FISH. An abnormal karyotype was detected in 12 out of 32 cultured UL samples. In five karyotypically abnormal ULs, MED12 mutations were found. The chromosomal abnormalities in ULs were present mostly by complex rearrangements, including chromothripsis. In both karyotypically normal and abnormal ULs, telomeres were ~40% shorter than in the corresponding myometrium, being possibly prerequisite to chromosomal rearrangements. The uncultured samples of six karyotypically abnormal ULs were checked for the detected chromosomal abnormalities through interphase FISH with individually designed DNA probe sets. All chromosomal abnormalities detected in cultured ULs were found in corresponding uncultured samples. In all tumors, clonal spectra were present by the karyotypically abnormal cell clone/clones which coexisted with karyotypically normal ones, suggesting that chromosomal abnormalities acted as drivers, rather than triggers, of the neoplastic process. In vitro propagation did not cause any changes in the spectrum of the cell clones, but altered their ratio compared to uncultured sample. The alterations were unique for every UL. Compared to its uncultured counterpart, the frequency of chromosomally abnormal cells in the cultured sample was higher in some ULs and lower in others. To summarize, ULs are characterized by both inter- and intratumor genetic heterogeneity. Regardless of its MED12 status, a tumor may be comprised of clones with and without chromosomal abnormalities. In contrast to the clonal spectrum, which is unique and constant for each UL, the clonal frequency demonstrates up or down shifts under in vitro conditions, most probably determined by the unequal ability of cells with different genetic aberrations to exist outside the body.
Collapse
|
36
|
Moore KR, Harmon QE, Baird DD. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Seroprevalence and Incidence and Growth of Ultrasound-Diagnosed Uterine Fibroids in a Large Population of Young African-American Women. Am J Epidemiol 2021; 190:2158-2162. [PMID: 34038935 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwab160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive tract infections have long been hypothesized to be risk factors for development of uterine fibroids, but few studies have investigated the issue. In our 2016 cross-sectional analysis from the Study of Environment, Lifestyle and Fibroids (2010-2018), a large Detroit, Michigan, community-based cohort study of 23- to 35-year-old African-American women with ultrasound fibroid screening, we found no association between a very prevalent reproductive tract infection, herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), and fibroids. With prospective data from the cohort (ultrasounds performed every 20 months over 5 years), we examined HSV-2's associations with fibroid incidence (among 1,208 women who were fibroid-free at baseline) and growth (among women with fibroids at baseline or diagnosed during the study). Using Cox proportional hazards models, we computed adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for fibroid incidence comparing HSV-2-seropositive women with HSV-2-seronegative women. The influence of HSV-2 infection on growth was assessed on the basis of the difference in fibroid size between successive ultrasounds (1,323 growth measures) using a linear mixed model, estimating the percent difference in growth scaled to 18 months. HSV-2 seropositivity was not associated with fibroid incidence (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.88, 95% confidence interval: 0.69, 1.12) or growth (estimated growth difference = 3.1%, 95% confidence interval: -5.8, 13.0). Women can be reassured that HSV-2 infection is unlikely to increase their risk of fibroid-related health problems, given these longitudinal measures.
Collapse
|
37
|
Tian YC, Wang Q, Wang HM, Wu JH, Dai YM. Change of uterine leiomyoma size during pregnancy and the influencing factors: A cohort study. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2021; 157:677-685. [PMID: 34449886 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the changes of uterine leiomyoma size during pregnancy and determine the factors influencing it. METHODS A prospective study was conducted from June 2016 to June 2018. Women with pregnancies complicated by leiomyoma were recruited. Ultrasound examinations were conducted to measure the size of leiomyoma during 6-7, 11-14, 22-24, 28-34 weeks of pregnancy and before delivery. The clinical characteristics and delivery details of the pregnant women were collected. Changes in leiomyoma size during different gestation periods and the influencing factors were analyzed. RESULTS Leiomyoma size commonly increased before 22-24 weeks of pregnancy and the fastest growth occurred before 11-14 weeks. From 22-24 weeks to the date of delivery, the size of leiomyoma remained unchanged. The initial size of the leiomyoma showed negative correlation with the changes in leiomyoma diameters during pregnancy. Pre-pregnancy body mass index, fetus number, leiomyoma location, and parity were positively correlated with the size changes in leiomyoma from 22-24 to 28-34 weeks of pregnancy. CONCLUSION Before 22-24 weeks of pregnancy, the size of the leiomyoma was gestation-dependent, which increases with gestational weeks. The fastest growth rate was before 11-14 weeks. The growth of leiomyoma is affected by multiple factors, and different factors can play different roles during different periods of the pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Cui Tian
- Department of Perinatal Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Clinical Service, Taizhou Blood Center, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hong-Mei Wang
- Department of Perinatal Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jian-Hong Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yin-Mei Dai
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Aninye IO, Laitner MH. Uterine Fibroids: Assessing Unmet Needs from Bench to Bedside. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2021; 30:1060-1067. [PMID: 34410867 PMCID: PMC8432600 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2021.0280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are noncancerous growths that can have deleterious effects on the health and quality of life for millions of women. Attempts to better understand the factors that influence prevalence and disparities associated with fibroids have been made; however, significant knowledge gaps continue to persist, which hinder care for individuals living with fibroids. The Society for Women's Health Research convened an interdisciplinary Uterine Fibroids Working Group to review the current state of knowledge about uterine fibroids and recommend areas in which to prioritize efforts to address research gaps and improve diagnosis, treatment, and access to care for patients with this chronic disease. Throughout a 2-day roundtable meeting, participants discussed updates on key literature, research, clinical practice, and public health data on uterine fibroids. Overarching themes and recommendations were identified and determined by consensus agreement of the participants at the conclusion of the meeting. Systematic studies of the etiology and pathology of uterine fibroids are needed to address important knowledge gaps and unmet clinical needs regarding the multifaceted management of fibroids and their effects on overall health and quality of life. The Working Group recommends addressing key deficits within the spheres of research, clinical care, and federal policy. Immediate needs include increasing research investment, improving fibroid assessment using pelvic imaging, implementing longitudinal study designs, addressing factors that contribute to disease disparities (especially among women of color), developing fertility-friendly treatment options, expanding awareness and education beyond gynecologic specialists, and advancing personalized patient care through shared decision-making approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene O Aninye
- Society for Women's Health Research, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Melissa H Laitner
- Society for Women's Health Research, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Ciebiera M, Ali M, Prince L, Zgliczyński S, Jakiel G, Al-Hendy A. The Significance of Measuring Vitamin D Serum Levels in Women with Uterine Fibroids. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2098-2109. [PMID: 33108619 PMCID: PMC8262605 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00363-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (UFs) are benign tumors originating from smooth muscle cells and are considered a common pathology that affects numerous women which is a notable socio-economic problem. Several UF risk factors have been identified including black race, obesity, and vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is steroid compound with pleiotropic effects on the human body. Vitamin D deficiency is a major public health concern worldwide. Several studies have shown that the majority of UF patients experienced hypovitaminosis D. In addition, sufficient vitamin D serum levels are associated with the reduced risk of UFs. In this review, we present available data highlighting the importance of measuring vitamin D serum levels in women with UFs and women at a high risk for UF development. We proposed a preliminary clinical instruction of 25-hydroxyvitamin D measurements and vitamin D supplementation for clinicians who are involved in the treatment of patients with UFs. Achieving sufficient serum levels of vitamin D might be of interest in patients with UFs. Screening, supplementation, treatment guidelines, and public health strategies for vitamin D deficiency in women with UFs as well as women at a high risk of UF development might be of potential importance as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, ul. Cegłowska 80, 01-809, Warsaw, Poland.
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Lillian Prince
- Biological Sciences Division: Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Stanisław Zgliczyński
- Department of Internal Diseases and Endocrinology, Central Teaching Clinical Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Jakiel
- First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Affiliation(s)
- Donna D Baird
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Quaker E Harmon
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Ciebiera M, Esfandyari S, Siblini H, Prince L, Elkafas H, Wojtyła C, Al-Hendy A, Ali M. Nutrition in Gynecological Diseases: Current Perspectives. Nutrients 2021; 13:1178. [PMID: 33918317 PMCID: PMC8065992 DOI: 10.3390/nu13041178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Diet and nutrition are fundamental in maintaining the general health of populations, including women's health. Health status can be affected by nutrient deficiency and vice versa. Gene-nutrient interactions are important contributors to health management and disease prevention. Nutrition can alter gene expression, as well as the susceptibility to diseases, including cancer, through several mechanisms. Gynecological diseases in general are diseases involving the female reproductive system and include benign and malignant tumors, infections, and endocrine diseases. Benign diseases such as uterine fibroids and endometriosis are common, with a negative impact on women's quality of life, while malignant tumors are among the most common cause of death in the recent years. In this comprehensive review article, a bibliographic search was performed for retrieving information about nutrients and how their deficiencies can be associated with gynecological diseases, namely polycystic ovary syndrome, infertility, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, dysmenorrhea, and infections, as well as cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers. Moreover, we discussed the potential beneficial impact of promising natural compounds and dietary supplements on alleviating these significant diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michał Ciebiera
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Sahar Esfandyari
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (S.E.); (H.E.)
| | - Hiba Siblini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (H.S.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Lillian Prince
- Biological Sciences Division, Public Health Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA;
| | - Hoda Elkafas
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA; (S.E.); (H.E.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA), Cairo 15301, Egypt
| | - Cezary Wojtyła
- International Prevention Research Institute-Collaborating Centre, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland;
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (H.S.); (A.A.-H.)
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Uterine fibroids are the most common benign neoplasms of the female reproductive tract and one of the major public health concerns. Although most women with uterine fibroids are asymptomatic, over 30% of them will present with varying symptoms. This review focuses on the role of non-hormonal mediators and pathways in uterine fibroid biology. Furthermore, it provides data regarding the most recent findings in the field of compounds, which use those non-hormonal pathways in the medical therapy of uterine fibroids. RECENT FINDINGS Complex signaling pathway alterations are crucial for uterine fibroid development. The topic of the pathophysiology of uterine fibroids focuses mostly on steroids and other hormones. However, other very important pathways exist, and some of them are independent of hormones. Some of the most important pathways, which are non-hormonal, but in some cases still hormone-depended, include growth factors, cytokines and inflammation, Smad proteins, wingless type/β-catenin and others. SUMMARY Much more is known about hormonal than about non-hormonal signaling in uterine fibroids. Growth factors, early life exposure and inflammation are key factors in uterine fibroid biology. Numerous agents depend on those pathways and may find their place in the current and future therapy of uterine fibroids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esra Cetin
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michał Ciebiera
- Department of Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Center of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|