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Zeldin J, Sandler DP, Ogunsina K, O’Brien KM. Association of Fibroids, Endometriosis, and Gynecologic Surgeries with Breast Cancer Incidence and Hormone Receptor Subtypes. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024; 33:576-585. [PMID: 38260971 PMCID: PMC10990796 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-23-1014] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibroids and endometriosis are sex hormone-mediated and exhibit cancer-like behavior. Breast cancer may be more common in women who have had these conditions, but the literature is conflicting and does not always address factors like hysterectomy/oophorectomy status, race/ethnicity, menopause, and hormone receptor subtypes. METHODS Data are from the Sister Study, a cohort of 50,884 U.S. women enrolled in 2003 to 2009 and followed through 2020. Cox proportional hazards models with time-varying exposures and covariates assessed the relationship of fibroids or endometriosis with breast cancer. Logistic regression examined the association with estrogen receptor (ER) status among cases. RESULTS Fibroids (19,932 cases) were positively associated with breast cancer [fully adjusted HR: 1.07; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01-1.14], notably among Black participants (HR: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.07-1.69) and women who had a hysterectomy (HR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.05-1.31). Endometriosis (3,970 cases) was not associated with breast cancer (HR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.91-1.08). Among 4,419 breast cancer cases, fibroids were positively associated with ER+ subtypes (OR: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.10-1.65), while endometriosis was negatively associated with ER+ subtypes (OR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.61-1.01). CONCLUSIONS We observed a modest positive association between fibroids and breast cancer, particularly ER+ breast cancer. No relationship with endometriosis and breast cancer incidence was found. IMPACT Fibroids, even in those with a family history of breast cancer, might modify breast cancer risk stratification tools. Future studies should further assess this link and interrogate shared risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Zeldin
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Dale P. Sandler
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Kemi Ogunsina
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Katie M. O’Brien
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
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Stewart EA, Al-Hendy A, Lukes AS, Madueke-Laveaux OS, Zhu E, Proehl S, Schulmann T, Marsh EE. Relugolix combination therapy in Black/African American women with symptomatic uterine fibroids: LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 230:237.e1-237.e11. [PMID: 37863160 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.10.030] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study, once-daily relugolix combination therapy (40 mg relugolix, estradiol 1 mg, norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) substantially improved uterine fibroid-associated heavy menstrual bleeding throughout the 52-week treatment period in the overall study population. OBJECTIVE Black or African American women typically experience a greater extent of disease and symptom burden of uterine fibroids vs other racial groups and have traditionally been underrepresented in clinical trials. This secondary analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of relugolix combination therapy in the subgroup population of Black or African American women with uterine fibroids in the LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study. STUDY DESIGN Black or African American premenopausal women (aged 18-50 years) with uterine fibroids and heavy menstrual bleeding who completed the 24-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind LIBERTY 1 (identifier: NCT03049735) or LIBERTY 2 (identifier: NCT03103087) trials were eligible to enroll in the 28-week LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study (identifier: NCT03412890), in which all women received once-daily, open-label relugolix combination therapy. The primary endpoint of this subanalysis was the proportion of Black or African American treatment responders: women who achieved a menstrual blood loss volume of <80 mL and at least a 50% reduction in menstrual blood loss volume from the pivotal study baseline to the last 35 days of treatment by pivotal study randomized treatment group. The secondary outcomes included rates of amenorrhea and changes in symptom burden and quality of life. RESULTS Overall, 241 of 477 women (50.5%) enrolled in the LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study self-identified as Black or African American. In Black or African American women receiving continuous relugolix combination therapy for up to 52 weeks, 58 of 70 women (82.9%; 95% confidence interval, 72.0%-90.8%) met the treatment responder criteria for reduction in heavy menstrual bleeding (primary endpoint). A substantial reduction in menstrual blood loss volume from the pivotal study baseline to week 52 was demonstrated (least squares mean percentage change: 85.0%); 64.3% of women achieved amenorrhea; 59.1% of women with anemia at the pivotal study baseline achieved a substantial improvement (>2 g/dL) in hemoglobin levels; and decreased symptom severity and distress because of uterine fibroid-associated symptoms and improvements in health-related quality of life through 52 weeks were demonstrated. The most frequently reported adverse events during the cumulative 52-week treatment period were hot flush (12.9%), headache (5.7%), and hypertension (5.7%). Bone mineral density was preserved through 52 weeks. CONCLUSION Once-daily relugolix combination therapy improved uterine fibroid-associated heavy menstrual bleeding in most Black or African American women who participated in the LIBERTY Long-Term Extension study. The safety and efficacy profile of relugolix combination therapy in Black or African American women was consistent with previously published results from the overall study population through 52 weeks. Findings from this subanalysis will assist shared decision-making by helping providers and Black or African American women understand the efficacy and safety of relugolix combination therapy as a pharmacologic option for the management of uterine fibroid-associated symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Stewart
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester, MN.
| | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Andrea S Lukes
- Carolina Women's Research and Wellness Center, Durham, NC
| | | | | | | | | | - Erica E Marsh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
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Tam T, Juarez L. Effectiveness of a hysteroscopic tissue removal system device for hysteroscopic myomectomy on patients' quality of life: a randomized clinical trial. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:541. [PMID: 37848865 PMCID: PMC10583329 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02707-3] [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: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the quality of life in patients treated for submucosal leiomyomas after hysteroscopic myomectomy compared to medical therapy. This is the first prospective randomized analysis comparing outcomes of medical therapy versus hysteroscopic myomectomy using the TruClear™ hysteroscopic tissue removal system to treat heavy menstrual bleeding from submucosal leiomyoma(s). METHODS Setting: private practice and community-based hospital; subjects: female patients with symptomatic submucosal leiomyomas from 2014 to 2017. A total of 69 patients enrolled, with 47 completed. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED randomization, linear mixed-effects modeling, hypothesis testing, and intent-to-treat analysis. Each patient was randomized to oral contraceptive pills/progesterone releasing intrauterine device or hysteroscopic myomectomy. Each patient was to complete the Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Health-related Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) questionnaire at baseline, one month, three months, and greater than or equal to six months after treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURED Primary outcome was the health-related quality of life (HR-QOL), as reflected from UFS-QOL scores. Contrasts were constructed from a linear mixed-effects model to compare the two treatment groups for changes from baseline in UFS-QOL scores. RESULTS UFS-QOL scores were similar at baseline between the two treatment groups. There was an overall improvement in all UFS-QOL scores within each group. Higher improvement scores were noted in the surgical group compared to the medical group for almost all UFS-QOL scores. At ≥ 6 months, in comparison to the medically managed patients, the most considerable score improvements for the surgical group were reported in HR-QOL concern, activities, self-consciousness and symptom severity scores having mean change scores (95% CIs) of 35.3, 28.9, 28.6, and 32.2, respectively. CONCLUSION Although there was no statistical difference in the change degree of improvement of overall quality of life among patients with symptomatic submucosal leiomyomas who received medical or surgical treatments in the study, there were greater differences in improvements in health-related quality of life scores over time after surgical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Tam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ascension Saint Francis Hospital, 355 Ridge Ave, Evanston, IL, 60202, USA.
| | - Lourdes Juarez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Edward-Elmhurst Medical Group, 100 Spalding Dr #406, Naperville, IL, 60540, USA
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Katon JG, Bossick A, Carey C, Christy A, Doll K, Gatsby E, Gray KE, Lynch KE, Moy E, Owens S, Washington DL, Callegari LS. Racial Disparities in Uterine Fibroid Treatment Among Veterans Using VA Health Care. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:405-413. [PMID: 37105835 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uterine fibroids are common, nonmalignant tumors that disproportionately impact Black patients. We aimed to examine Black and White differences in receipt of any treatment and type of first treatment in the Department of Veterans Affairs, including effect modification by severity as approximated by anemia. METHODS We used Department of Veterans Affairs administrative data to identify 5,041 Black and 3,206 White veterans with symptomatic uterine fibroids, identified by International Classification of Diseases, 9th edition, Clinical Modification, codes, between fiscal year 2010 and fiscal year 2012 and followed in the administrative data through fiscal year 2018 for outcomes. Outcomes included receipt of any treatment, hysterectomy as first treatment, and fertility-sparing treatment as first treatment. We stratified all analyses by age (<45, ≥45 years old), used generalized linear models with a log link and Poisson error distribution, included an interaction term between race and anemia, and used recycled predictions to estimate adjusted percentages for outcomes. RESULTS There was evidence of effect modification by anemia for receipt of any treatment but not for any other outcomes. Across age and anemia sub-groups, Black veterans were less likely to receive any treatment than White veterans. Adjusted racial differences were most pronounced among veterans with anemia (<45 years, Black-White difference = -10.3 percentage points; 95% confidence interval, -15.9 to -4.7; ≥45 years, Black-White difference = -20.3 percentage points; 95% confidence interval, -27.8 to -12.7). Across age groups, Black veterans were less likely than White veterans to have hysterectomy and more likely to have a fertility-sparing treatment as their first treatment. CONCLUSIONS We identified significant Black-White disparities in receipt of treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids. Additional research that centers the experiences of Black veterans with uterine fibroids is needed to inform strategies to eliminate racial disparities in uterine fibroid care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodie G Katon
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
| | - Andrew Bossick
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington; Henry Ford Healthcare System, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Cathea Carey
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington
| | - Alicia Christy
- Office of Women's Health, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Kemi Doll
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Elise Gatsby
- Department of Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kristen E Gray
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kristine E Lynch
- Department of Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Ernest Moy
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Health Equity, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Shanise Owens
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Donna L Washington
- HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, and Policy, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California; Division of General Internal Medicine & Health Services Research, Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Lisa S Callegari
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Healthcare System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research and Development (HSR&D), Seattle, Washington; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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Beavis AL, Blechter B, Najjar O, Fader AN, Katebi Kashi P, Rositch AF. Identifying women 45 years and younger at elevated risk for endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. Gynecol Oncol 2023; 174:98-105. [PMID: 37172411 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2023.04.019] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of, and identify risk factors associated with, endometrial hyperplasia and/or cancer (EH/EC) in patients ≤45 years old undergoing endometrial sampling for abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients 18-45 years old with AUB who underwent endometrial sampling between 2016 and 2019 within a US-based multi-hospital system using billing code queries. We used multivariable Poisson regression to identify factors associated with EH/EC and calculated prevalence stratified by these factors. We estimated predicted probabilities within combinations of characteristics in order to examine the range of risk in this population. RESULTS Among 3175 patients, median age was 39 years (interquartile range [IQR]:35-43) and BMI was 29.7 kg/m2 (IQR: 24.2-36.9). Thirty-nine percent were non-Hispanic White, 41% non-Hispanic Black, 9% Hispanic, and 11% Asian/Other/Unknown. BMI and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) were associated with higher EH/EC risk; non-Hispanic Black race was associated with lower risk. EH/EC prevalence ranged from 2% in BMI <25 to 16% in BMI ≥50 kg/m2 (p-trend <0.001). These prevalence estimates differed by race/ethnicity with the lowest estimates in non-Hispanic Black patients (0.5% BMI <25 vs. 9% BMI ≥50) and highest in Hispanic patients (1.5% BMI <25 vs. 33% BMI ≥50). Accounting for combinations of risk factors, predicted probabilities were highest - 34-36% - among patients with PCOS, diabetes, BMI ≥50, and Hispanic or Asian/Other/Unknown race/ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS When accounting for combinations of key risk factors, risk of EH/EC in patients ≤45 years old with AUB ranges widely; the more nuanced estimates of risk presented here could help inform clinical decision-making about endometrial sampling in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Beavis
- The Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America.
| | - Batel Blechter
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Omar Najjar
- The Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Amanda N Fader
- The Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Payam Katebi Kashi
- The Kelly Gynecologic Oncology Service, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Anne F Rositch
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
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Tal MG, Keidar R, Magnazi G, Henn O, Kim JH, Chudnoff SG, Stepp KJ. Pressure-Induced Fibroid Ischemia: First-In-Human Experience with a Novel Device for Laparoscopic Treatment of Symptomatic Uterine Fibroids. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1366-1375. [PMID: 35941511 PMCID: PMC9360636 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01033-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of use of a novel uterine fibroid treatment device hypothesized to cause fibroid infarction by increasing intra-tumoral pressure. Between August 2019 and January 2020, 21 uterine fibroids were treated in 16 symptomatic pre-menopausal black women. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging was performed before the procedure, a day after the procedure and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The subjects were also followed for clinical outcomes and quality of life up to 12 months at a single investigational site. At 3 months, the mean reduction in the fibroid volume was 36.3% (P = .002). Incremental reduction in volume peaked at the end of the follow-up, at the 12-month mark (60.4%; P = .008). There were no procedures in which the users failed to perform laparoscopic pressure suturing of fibroids with the pressure-induced fibroid ischemia device. Improvement in the quality of life was evident in the Health-Related Quality of Life total, Energy/Mood, Control, and Sexual Function domains of the Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life questionnaire at 3 months post-procedure. Unanticipated risks were not identified. Serious adverse events were not identified. The initial clinical assessment of the pressure-induced fibroid ischemia device supports feasibility of the approach and does not reveal serious safety concerns. Trial is currently being registered retrospectively (This was a feasibility study and therefore registration was not mandatory).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Tal
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Ran Keidar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, E. Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Ohad Henn
- Empress Medical Ltd., Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jin Hee Kim
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott G Chudnoff
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maimonides Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kevin J Stepp
- Atrium Health Women's Care Urogynecology and Pelvic Surgery, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC, USA
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Dykstra C, Laily A, Marsh EE, Kasting ML, DeMaria AL. "I think people should be more aware:" Uterine fibroid experiences among women living in Indiana, USA. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 107:107584. [PMID: 36473404 PMCID: PMC9808590 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2022.107584] [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: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand healthcare experiences among patients with uterine fibroids (fibroids) across the continuum of care, from early symptoms through diagnosis, treatment, and management, while also investigating health disparities. METHODS We conducted 20 semi-structured interviews with patients with fibroids. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and qualitatively analyzed using thematic analysis. Eligible participants were women aged 18 and over, residing within 75 miles of one of the two recruitment locations (Tippecanoe or Marion County) in Indiana, USA. RESULTS Women experienced myriad physical symptoms, which often manifested into psychological and sexual disturbances and infiltrated all aspects of daily life. Internet searches were frequently mentioned as their main information source. Fertility became a prominent factor in deciding treatment options. However, health disparities prevented some from receiving quality fibroids healthcare. Some women reported staying home during COVID-19 pandemic facilitated the management of physical symptoms. Overall, participants advocated for greater fibroids awareness and education. CONCLUSION Results highlight barriers and facilitators to fibroids-related decisions, behaviors, and outcomes. Translation of research to practice was guided by a combined Social-Ecological Model and social determinants of health framework for development of strategic interventions. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Interventions should aim to improve fibroids healthcare access, education and awareness, and patient-provider communication for minority, rural, and low socioeconomic status communities disproportionately impacted by fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandler Dykstra
- Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| | - Alfu Laily
- Department of Public Health, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
| | - Erica E Marsh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Monica L Kasting
- Department of Public Health, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
| | - Andrea L DeMaria
- Department of Public Health, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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Trivedi PS, Guerra B, Kumar V, Akinwande G, West D, Abi-Jaoudeh N, Salazar G, Rochon P. Healthcare Disparities in Interventional Radiology. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2022; 33:1459-1467.e1. [PMID: 36058539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2022.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Racial, ethnic, and sex-based healthcare disparities have been documented for the past several decades. Nonetheless, disparities remain firmly entrenched in our care delivery systems, with multiple contributing factors, including patient interactions with care providers, systemic barriers to access, and socioeconomic determinants of health. Interventional radiology is also subject to these drivers of health inequity. In this review, documented disparities for the most common conditions being addressed by interventional radiologists are summarized; their magnitude is quantified where relevant, and underlying drivers are identified. Specific examples are provided to illustrate how medical, cultural, and socioeconomic factors interact to produce unequal outcomes. By outlining known disparities and common contributors, this review aims to motivate future efforts to mitigate them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Premal S Trivedi
- Department of Radiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado.
| | - Bernardo Guerra
- Department of Radiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Vishal Kumar
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Goke Akinwande
- Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Derek West
- Department of Radiology, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nadine Abi-Jaoudeh
- Department of Radiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Gloria Salazar
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Paul Rochon
- Department of Radiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
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Mlodawska OW, Saini P, Parker JB, Wei JJ, Bulun SE, Simon MA, Chakravarti D. Epigenomic and enhancer dysregulation in uterine leiomyomas. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:518-547. [PMID: 35199155 PMCID: PMC9247409 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine leiomyomas, also known as uterine fibroids or myomas, are the most common benign gynecological tumors and are found in women of reproductive and postmenopausal age. There is an exceptionally high prevalence of this tumor in women by the age of 50 years. Black women are particularly affected, with an increased incidence, earlier age of onset, larger and faster growing fibroids and greater severity of symptoms as compared to White women. Although advances in identifying genetic and environmental factors to delineate these fibroids have already been made, only recently has the role of epigenomics in the pathogenesis of this disease been considered. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Over recent years, studies have identified multiple epigenomic aberrations that may contribute to leiomyoma development and growth. This review will focus on the most recent discoveries in three categories of epigenomic changes found in uterine fibroids, namely aberrant DNA methylation, histone tail modifications and histone variant exchange, and their translation into altered target gene architecture and transcriptional outcome. The findings demonstrating how the altered 3D shape of the enhancer can regulate gene expression from millions of base pairs away will be discussed. Additionally, translational implications of these discoveries and potential roadblocks in leiomyoma treatment will be addressed. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive PubMed search was performed to identify published articles containing keywords relevant to the focus of the review, such as: uterine leiomyoma, uterine fibroids, epigenetic alterations, epigenomics, stem cells, chromatin modifications, extracellular matrix [ECM] organization, DNA methylation, enhancer, histone post-translational modifications and dysregulated gene expression. Articles until September 2021 were explored and evaluated to identify relevant updates in the field. Most of the articles focused on in the discussion were published between 2015 and 2021, although some key discoveries made before 2015 were included for background information and foundational purposes. We apologize to the authors whose work was not included because of space restrictions or inadvertent omission. OUTCOMES Chemical alterations to the DNA structure and of nucleosomal histones, without changing the underlying DNA sequence, have now been implicated in the phenotypic manifestation of uterine leiomyomas. Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis has revealed subsets of either suppressed or overexpressed genes accompanied by aberrant promoter methylation. Furthermore, differential promoter access resulting from altered 3D chromatin structure and histone modifications plays a role in regulating transcription of key genes thought to be involved in leiomyoma etiology. The dysregulated genes function in tumor suppression, apoptosis, angiogenesis, ECM formation, a variety of cancer-related signaling pathways and stem cell differentiation. Aberrant DNA methylation or histone modification is also observed in altering enhancer architecture, which leads to changes in enhancer-promoter contact strength, producing novel explanations for the overexpression of high mobility group AT-hook 2 and gene dysregulation found in mediator complex subunit 12 mutant fibroids. While many molecular mechanisms and epigenomic features have been investigated, the basis for the racial disparity observed among those in the Black population remains unclear. WIDER IMPLICATIONS A comprehensive understanding of the exact pathogenesis of uterine leiomyoma is lacking and requires attention as it can provide clues for prevention and viable non-surgical treatment. These findings will widen our knowledge of the role epigenomics plays in the mechanisms related to uterine leiomyoma development and highlight novel approaches for the prevention and identification of epigenome targets for long-term non-invasive treatment options of this significantly common disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - J Brandon Parker
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jian-Jun Wei
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Serdar E Bulun
- Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Melissa A Simon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Health Equity Transformation, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Debabrata Chakravarti
- Correspondence address. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 E Superior Street, Lurie 4-119, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. E-mail:
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Doll KM, Romano SS, Marsh EE, Robinson WR. Estimated Performance of Transvaginal Ultrasonography for Evaluation of Postmenopausal Bleeding in a Simulated Cohort of Black and White Women in the US. JAMA Oncol 2021; 7:1158-1165. [PMID: 34264304 PMCID: PMC8283671 DOI: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2021.1700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Black women in the US with endometrial cancer (EC) are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced-stage disease independent of insured status and histologic type. The most common way of diagnosing EC at early stages is through screening of people with postmenopausal bleeding to detect endometrial thickness (ET). This approach may disproportionately underperform in Black women secondary to a higher prevalence of fibroids and nonendometrioid EC in this population, both of which affect the quality of ET measurement. OBJECTIVE To compare the performance of recommended transvaginal ultrasonography (TVUS) ET thresholds as a screening method to prompt endometrial biopsy by race in a simulated cohort of symptomatic women. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS In a simulated retrospective cohort study, based on data from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) national cancer registry 2012-2016; the US census; and published estimates of ET distribution and fibroid prevalence, diagnostic test characteristics of the 3-mm or more, 4-mm or more, and 5-mm or more ET thresholds for biopsy to capture EC diagnoses were calculated. The simulated cohort was constructed from February 2, 2020 (date of access to SEER data), to August 31, 2020. Analysis occurred from September 30, 2020, to March 30, 2021, including the primary analysis and the sensitivity calculations. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The main outcome measured was accuracy of the TVUS ET threshold to accurately identify cases of EC, measured by sensitivity, negative predictive value, and area under the curve (AUC). RESULTS A total of 367 073 simulated Black and White women with postmenopausal bleeding were evaluated, including 36 708 with EC. Among Black women, the currently recommended 4-mm or greater ET threshold prompted biopsy for fewer than half of EC cases (sensitivity, 47.5%; 95% CI, 46.0%-49.0%); of women referred for biopsy, 13.1% were EC cases (positive predictive value, 13.1%; 95% CI, 12.5%-13.6%). The AUC for the 4-mm or more threshold was 0.57 (95% CI, 0.56-0.57). In contrast, among the White women, the 4-mm or more threshold led to biopsy for most with EC (sensitivity, 87.9%; 95% CI, 87.6%-88.3%). Of those referred for biopsy, 14.6% had EC (positive predictive value, 14.6%; 95% CI, 14.4%-14.7%); AUC was 0.73 (95% CI, 0.73-0.74). The same variations held for the 3-mm or more and 5-mm or more ET thresholds: sensitivity, positive predictive value, and AUC were consistently lower for Black women than White women. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The findings of this simulated cohort study suggest that use of ET as measured by TVUS to determine the need for EC diagnostic testing in symptomatic women may exacerbate racial disparities in EC stage at diagnosis. In simulated data, TVUS ET screening missed almost 5 times more cases of EC among Black women vs White women owing to the greater prevalence of fibroids and nonendometrioid histologic type in Black women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kemi M. Doll
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle
- Department of Health Services, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle
| | - Sarah S. Romano
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle
| | - Erica E. Marsh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Whitney R. Robinson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Berman JM, Bradley L, Hawkins SM, Levy B. Uterine Fibroids in Black Women: A Race-Stratified Subgroup Analysis of Treatment Outcomes After Laparoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2021; 31:593-599. [PMID: 34287028 PMCID: PMC9063135 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2020.9001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The disease and treatment burden of uterine fibroids (UF) in Black women is substantially greater compared with other racial groups, with higher rates of complications and poorer outcomes with both hysterectomy and myomectomy. The inequities in the access Black women have to minimally invasive routes of surgery contribute to their burden of illness. Laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (LAP-RFA) is a minimally invasive, safe, and effective uterine-sparing treatment option. Methods: This subgroup analysis of the LAP-RFA Pivotal Trial stratified outcomes by race comparing White women (n = 28, 21%) versus Black women (n = 46, 34%). Results: At baseline, Black women had more fibroids on average (7.3 vs. 3.7; P ≤ 0.001), a greater symptom severity score (SSS) (P ≤ 0.001), and a lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL) score (P = 0.005) than White women. At 36 months post-treatment with LAP-RFA, the statistical differences that existed with baseline SSS and HRQoL score were eliminated between Black and White women. Menstrual blood loss (140.1 mL vs. 127.02 mL; P = 0.44) and mean fibroid volume reduction (47.5 cm3 vs. 36.0 cm3; P = 0.17) were similar between Black and White women at 12 months. Although not statistically significant, the intraoperative total blood loss and uterine blood loss was lower in Black women than White women, despite greater operative time (160 minutes vs. 137 minutes; P = 0.09). Conclusions: These results are promising in providing an alternative uterine-sparing option for Black women and may help to provide a minimally invasive option that can address some of the racial inequities in care for Black women with UF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay M Berman
- Wayne State University Medical School, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Linda Bradley
- Department of OB-GYN and Reproductive Biology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Soyini M Hawkins
- Fibroid and Pelvic Wellness Center of Georgia, Peachtree Corners, Georgia, USA
| | - Barbara Levy
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Proteogenomic landscape of uterine leiomyomas from hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer patients. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9371. [PMID: 33931688 PMCID: PMC8087684 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88585-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic mutations in fumarate hydratase (FH) drive hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (HLRCC) and increase the risk of developing uterine leiomyomas (ULMs). An integrated proteogenomic analysis of ULMs from HLRCC (n = 16; FH-mutation confirmed) and non-syndromic (NS) patients (n = 12) identified a significantly higher protein:transcript correlation in HLRCC (R = 0.35) vs. NS ULMs (R = 0.242, MWU p = 0.0015). Co-altered proteins and transcripts (228) included antioxidant response element (ARE) target genes, such as thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNRD1), and correlated with activation of NRF2-mediated oxidative stress response signaling in HLRCC ULMs. We confirm 185 transcripts previously described as altered between HLRCC and NS ULMs, 51 co-altered at the protein level and several elevated in HLRCC ULMs are involved in regulating cellular metabolism and glycolysis signaling. Furthermore, 367 S-(2-succino)cysteine peptides were identified in HLRCC ULMs, of which sixty were significantly elevated in HLRCC vs. NS ULMs (LogFC = 1.86, MWU p < 0.0001). These results confirm and define novel proteogenomic alterations in uterine leiomyoma tissues collected from HLRCC patients and underscore conserved molecular alterations correlating with inactivation of the FH tumor suppressor gene.
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Gray KE, Ma EW, Callegari LS, Magnusson SL, Tartaglione EV, Christy AY, Katon JG. Understanding Variation in Availability and Provision of Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy: A Qualitative Study of Department of Veterans Affairs Gynecologists. Womens Health Issues 2020; 30:200-206. [DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Bray MJ, Wellons MF, Jones SH, Torstenson ES, Edwards TL, Velez Edwards DR. Transethnic and race-stratified genome-wide association study of fibroid characteristics in African American and European American women. Fertil Steril 2018; 110:737-745.e34. [PMID: 30196971 PMCID: PMC6132266 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify, through genome-wide association studies, genetic loci that associate with differences in fibroid size and number in a population of African American and European American women. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Using BioVU, a clinical population from the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults cohort, a prospective cohort, we identified 1520 women (609 African American and 911 European American) with documented fibroid characteristics. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Outcome measurements include volume of largest fibroid, largest fibroid dimension, and number of fibroids (single vs. multiple). RESULT(S) In race-stratified analyses we achieved genome-wide significance at a variant located between MAT2B and TENM2 (rs57542984, β = 0.13; 95% confidence interval 0.09, 0.17) for analyses of largest fibroid dimension in African Americans. The strongest signal for transethnic analyses was at a variant on 1q31.1 located between PLA2G4A and BRINP3 (rs6605005, β = 0.24; 95% confidence interval 0.15, 0.33) for fibroid volume. Results from MetaXcan identified an association between predicted expression of the gene ER degradation enhancing alpha-mannosidase like protein 2 (EDEM2) in the thyroid and number of fibroids (Z score = -4.51). CONCLUSION(S) This study identified many novel associations between genetic loci and fibroid size and number in both race-stratified and transethnic analyses. Future studies are necessary to further validate our study findings and to better understand the mechanisms underlying these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Bray
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Melissa F Wellons
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Sarah H Jones
- Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Eric S Torstenson
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Todd L Edwards
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Institute for Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Division of Epidemiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Digna R Velez Edwards
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Institute for Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Department of Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.
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Bray MJ, Torstenson ES, Jones SH, Edwards TL, Velez Edwards DR. Evaluating risk factors for differences in fibroid size and number using a large electronic health record population. Maturitas 2018; 114:9-13. [PMID: 29907250 PMCID: PMC6022822 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate individual characteristics of women with fibroids in relation to fibroid size and number. METHODS This cross-sectional study involved 2302 women (black and white, age range 18-87) with image- or surgery-confirmed fibroids from the Synthetic Derivative, a database of de-identified demographic and clinical information from patient electronic health records (EHRs) from the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. We performed multivariate regression analyses on the following outcomes: volume of largest fibroid, largest dimension of all fibroids, and number of fibroids (single vs multiple). Candidate risk factors included age at diagnosis, body mass index (BMI), race, type 2 diabetes status, and number of living children (a proxy for parity). We assessed potential effect measure modification by race and both age and BMI using a likelihood ratio test. RESULTS Black race was strongly associated with having multiple fibroids (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.83, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49, 2.24) and larger fibroid volume (adjusted beta: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.38, 2.27) and greater largest dimension (adjusted beta: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.18, 1.38). Having multiple fibroids was most strongly associated with ages 43-47 (aOR = 3.37, 95% CI: 2.55, 4.46) compared with the youngest age group (ages 18-36). Having a larger number of living children was associated with having single a fibroid (aOR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.78, 0.99). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that different underlying etiologies are involved for women developing single versus multiple fibroids and small versus large fibroids. Studies are needed of the mechanisms by which these characteristics influence fibroid formation and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Bray
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Eric S Torstenson
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Sarah H Jones
- Institute for Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Todd L Edwards
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States; Institute for Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States; Division of Epidemiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States; Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States; Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Digna R Velez Edwards
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States; Institute for Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States; Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States.
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Hayden MA, Ordulu Z, Gallagher CS, Quade BJ, Anchan RM, Middleton NR, Srouji SS, Stewart EA, Morton CC. Clinical, pathologic, cytogenetic, and molecular profiling in self-identified black women with uterine leiomyomata. Cancer Genet 2018; 222-223:1-8. [PMID: 29666002 DOI: 10.1016/j.cancergen.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Black women are disproportionately affected by uterine leiomyomata (UL), or fibroids, compared to other racial groups, having a greater lifetime risk of developing UL and an earlier age of diagnosis. In order to elucidate molecular and genetic mechanisms responsible for the increased prevalence and morbidity associated with UL in black women, clinical, pathologic, cytogenetic, and select molecular profiling (MED12 mutation analysis) of 75 self-reported black women undergoing surgical treatment for UL was performed. Our observations are broadly representative of previous cytogenetic studies of UL: karyotypically abnormal tumors were detected in 30.7% of women and 17.4% of analyzed tumors. No notable association was observed between race and increased occurrence of cytogenetic abnormalities that might contribute to any population-specific morbidity or prevalence rate. Our data on MED12 mutation analyses (73.2% of tumors harbored a MED12 mutation) provide additional support for a significant role of MED12 in tumorigenesis. Although the effect of MED12-mediated tumorigenesis appears significant irrespective of race, other genetic events such as the distribution of karyotypic abnormalities appear differently in black women. This case series indicates that presently recognized genetic and molecular characteristics of UL do not appear to explain the increased prevalence and morbidity of UL in black women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Hayden
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Zehra Ordulu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - C Scott Gallagher
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Bradley J Quade
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Raymond M Anchan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nia Robinson Middleton
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Serene S Srouji
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Stewart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - Cynthia C Morton
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Program in Medical and Population Genetics, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK.
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He M, Jacobson H, Zhang C, Setzen R, Zhang L. A retrospective study of ultrasound-guided high intensity focussed ultrasound ablation for multiple uterine fibroids in South Africa. Int J Hyperthermia 2018; 34:1304-1310. [DOI: 10.1080/02656736.2017.1421323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Min He
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Engineering in Medicine Co-founded by Chongqing and the Ministry of Science and Technology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Hayley Jacobson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Cai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Engineering in Medicine Co-founded by Chongqing and the Ministry of Science and Technology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Raymond Setzen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound Engineering in Medicine Co-founded by Chongqing and the Ministry of Science and Technology, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
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Hooi DJ, Meijer CJ, Witte BI, Bravio IG, Pinedo HM, Kenter GG. Supravaginal hysterectomy in Curaçao prevalence and impact on screening for cervical cancer. Prev Med Rep 2017; 8:238-241. [PMID: 29181295 PMCID: PMC5695536 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In Curaçao, hysterectomies are frequently performed. A common reason for this procedure is the high incidence of leiomyomatosis. However in some cases the cervix is conserved. Following supravaginal hysterectomy most women discontinue cervical cancer screening because they think the cervix is not conserved. We aimed to get insight in the proportion of supravaginal hysterectomies and the level of awareness on the necessity to continue with cervical cancer screening in case of retained cervix. In 2014, data from all hysterectomies performed between 2003 and 2013 on Curaçao were collected. Information about: type of hysterectomy (supravaginal or not), age of the patient, reason for a hysterectomy and incidence of cervical cancer post-hysterectomy were obtained from the nationwide pathology database. In addition, 600 hysterectomised volunteers answered a questionnaire in which the awareness of their type of hysterectomy and continuation of screening for cervical cancer after surgery were investigated. In the at-risk population (≥ 15 years old), 6.0 per1000 women (95% CI 5.9-6.2) had a hysterectomy between 2003 and 2013 (n = 692,304). From the performed hysterectomies, 2.9% were supravaginal and no cases of cervical cancer post-hysterectomy were reported. The majority (55.3%) of women were unaware of their cervical status post-hysterectomy. About one-third (34.3%) of these women had their last Pap-smear pre-hysterectomy. Information campaigns are needed to raise awareness in women, to continue cervical-screening after supravaginal hysterectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desiree J. Hooi
- VU University Medical Centre, Department of Pathology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Fundashon Prevenshon, Curaçao
| | - Chris J.L.M. Meijer
- VU University Medical Centre, Department of Pathology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Birgit I. Witte
- VU University Medical Centre, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Gemma G. Kenter
- VU University Medical Centre, Department of Gynaecology and Oncology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Soliman AM, Margolis MK, Castelli-Haley J, Fuldeore MJ, Owens CD, Coyne KS. Impact of uterine fibroid symptoms on health-related quality of life of US women: evidence from a cross-sectional survey. Curr Med Res Opin 2017; 33:1971-1978. [PMID: 28836862 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2017.1372107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine fibroids (UF) are associated with significant health-related quality of life (HRQL) impact. This study examined the impact of UF symptoms on HRQL. METHODS An online cross-sectional survey of 18 to 49 year old US women was conducted and collected demographics, UF prevalence, symptoms, and HRQL using the UFS-QOL. Descriptive statistics were used to examine the impact of symptom presence, severity, bothersomeness, and number of UF symptoms on HRQL. Analyses were weighted to match the US female population distribution. Multivariate regressions were performed with each subscale as a dependent variable to examine the impact of individual UF symptoms on HRQL. RESULTS A total of 59,411 (15.5%) panel members completed the prevalence screener; 4848 met inclusion criteria; 955 had UF and no hysterectomy. Mean age was 40.3; 58% were white; 63% were married/civil union. Common UF symptoms were: lower back pain (65%), fatigue/weariness (63%), bloating (61%), pelvic pain/cramping during menses (63%), and heavy bleeding during menses (54%). Mean UFS-QoL subscale scores were significantly (p < .05) worse among women with a UF symptom versus women without the symptom. Women who rated their UF symptoms as severe had significantly (p < .001) worse UFS-QoL scores than women with mild or moderate symptoms. UFS-QoL subscale scores worsened as the number of symptoms increased. In the regressions, the presence of bleeding and non-bleeding symptoms were related to worse UFS-QoL subscale scores. CONCLUSION HRQL among women with UF was significantly impacted by UF-related symptoms. Greater impact was observed as the number and severity of symptoms increased.
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Ranjit A, Sharma M, Romano A, Jiang W, Staat B, Koehlmoos T, Haider AH, Little SE, Witkop CT, Robinson JN, Cohen SL. Does Universal Insurance Mitigate Racial Differences in Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy? J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2017; 24:790-796. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2017.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Hearing the Silenced Voices of Underserved Women: The Role of Qualitative Research in Gynecologic and Reproductive Care. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2017; 44:109-120. [PMID: 28160888 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In order to provide effective evidence-based health care to women, rigorous research that examines women's lived experiences in their own voices is needed. However, clinical health research has often excluded the experiences of women and minority patient populations. Further, clinical research has often relied on quantitative research strategies; this provides an interesting but limited understanding of women's health experiences and hinders the provision of effective patient-centered care. This article defines qualitative research and its unique contributions to research, and provides examples of how qualitative research has given insights into the reproductive health perspectives and behaviors of underserved women.
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Gurusamy KS, Vaughan J, Fraser IS, Best LMJ, Richards T. Medical Therapies for Uterine Fibroids - A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149631. [PMID: 26919185 PMCID: PMC4769153 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Uterine fibroids are common, often symptomatic and a third of women need repeated time off work. Consequently 25% to 50% of women with fibroids receive surgical treatment, namely myomectomy or hysterectomy. Hysterectomy is the definitive treatment as fibroids are hormone dependent and frequently recurrent. Medical treatment aims to control symptoms in order to replace or delay surgery. This may improve the outcome of surgery and prevent recurrence. Purpose To determine whether any medical treatment can be recommended in the treatment of women with fibroids about to undergo surgery and in those for whom surgery is not planned based on currently available evidence. Study Selection Two authors independently identified randomised controlled trials (RCT) of all pharmacological treatments aimed at the treatment of fibroids from a list of references obtained by formal search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Science Citation Index, and ClinicalTrials.gov until December 2013. Data Extraction Two authors independently extracted data from identified studies. Data Synthesis A Bayesian network meta-analysis was performed following the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence—Decision Support Unit guidelines. Odds ratios, rate ratios, or mean differences with 95% credible intervals (CrI) were calculated. Results and Limitations A total of 75 RCT met the inclusion criteria, 47 of which were included in the network meta-analysis. The overall quality of evidence was very low. The network meta-analysis showed differing results for different outcomes. Conclusions There is currently insufficient evidence to recommend any medical treatment in the management of fibroids. Certain treatments have future promise however further, well designed RCTs are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurinchi S. Gurusamy
- University College London, Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, 9th Floor, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Vaughan
- University College London, Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, 9th Floor, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
| | - Ian S. Fraser
- Sydney Centre for Reproductive Health Research, Family Planning New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2131, Australia
- University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Lawrence M. J. Best
- University College London, Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, 9th Floor, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
| | - Toby Richards
- University College London, Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, 9th Floor, Royal Free Hospital, Pond Street, London, NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Chiaffarino F, Ricci E, Cipriani S, Chiantera V, Parazzini F. Cigarette smoking and risk of uterine myoma: systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2016; 197:63-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2015.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Vitamin D and uterine leiomyoma among a sample of US women: Findings from NHANES, 2001-2006. Reprod Toxicol 2015; 57:81-6. [PMID: 26047529 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2015.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Scientific understanding of the etiology of uterine leiomyomata (UL) remains incomplete, but recent investigations have suggested an association between low Vitamin D and UL risk. In this study, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of Vitamin D exposure, measured using serum levels of 25(OH)D (a Vitamin D metabolite), and self-reported UL diagnosis among 3590 women aged 20-54 in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 2001-2006). Multivariate logistic regression models comparing each quartile of 25(OH)D to the lowest quartile indicated no relationship between 25(OH)D and odds of UL in the whole population (Ptrend=0.37), or in sensitivity analyses. However, a probabilistic analysis correcting outcome misclassification indicated that insufficient 25(OH)D was associated with UL in white (Odds ratio (OR) median estimate: 2.17; 2.5, 97.5 percentiles: (1.26, 23.47)), but not black women (OR median estimate: 1.70; 2.5, 97.5 percentiles: (0.89, 3.51)), suggesting misclassification may have driven some of the null findings.
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Wallace K, Chatman K, Porter J, Scott J, Johnson V, Moseley J, LaMarca B. Enodthelin 1 is elevated in plasma and explants from patients having uterine leiomyomas. Reprod Sci 2015; 21:1196-205. [PMID: 25138825 DOI: 10.1177/1933719114542018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine a role for endothelin (ET) in progression of uterine fibroids. DESIGN An in vitro model of fibroid and myometrium cultivation. PATIENTS A total of 32 women undergoing hysterectomies for uterine fibroids and 11 women undergoing hysterectomies for abnormal uterine bleeding (control population). RESULTS Women with uterine fibroids were hypertensive and displayed significantly greater circulating ET-1 compared to control patients. Secretion of ET-1 was greater from the fibroids compared to myometrium explants. Endothelin 1 secretion was attenuated with blockade of the angiotensin II type 1 or endothelinA receptors. Hypoxia stimulated ET-1 secretion from both myometrium and fibroid explants. Preproendothelin messenger RNA expression increased with hypoxia from fibroid explants compared to normoxic controls. CONCLUSIONS These data support the hypothesis that uterine fibroids are associated with hypertension and increased ET-1, which is exacerbated with hypoxia. These data suggest a possible link between mechanisms of blood pressure regulation and development of uterine leiomyoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kedra Wallace
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Krystal Chatman
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Justin Porter
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Jeremy Scott
- Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Venessia Johnson
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Janae Moseley
- Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Babbette LaMarca
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA Pharmacology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
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Eltoukhi HM, Modi MN, Weston M, Armstrong AY, Stewart EA. The health disparities of uterine fibroid tumors for African American women: a public health issue. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2014; 210:194-9. [PMID: 23942040 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2013.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2013] [Revised: 07/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Uterine fibroid tumors (leiomyomas) are the most common benign pelvic tumors in women and are the major indication for hysterectomy. Fibroid tumors are more common and more severe among African American women. Although this disease disproportionately affects the African American population, we understand little about what causes the disparity. Fibroid tumors should be considered a public health issue, given the magnitude of the problem and the costs of health care for this disease. In this review, we examine the burden of disease from fibroid tumors in the African American population and review the natural history, diagnosis, and treatment of uterine fibroid tumors, with emphasis on how these can differ, depending on race. We also focus on the socioeconomic burden caused by the disease and describe the anticipated influence of new health care reforms and funding mechanisms for fibroid tumor research.
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Montgomery G, Zondervan K, Nyholt D. The future for genetic studies in reproduction. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:1-14. [PMID: 23982303 PMCID: PMC3867979 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic factors contribute to risk of many common diseases affecting reproduction and fertility. In recent years, methods for genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have revolutionized gene discovery for common traits and diseases. Results of GWAS are documented in the Catalog of Published Genome-Wide Association Studies at the National Human Genome Research Institute and report over 70 publications for 32 traits and diseases associated with reproduction. These include endometriosis, uterine fibroids, age at menarche and age at menopause. Results that pass appropriate stringent levels of significance are generally well replicated in independent studies. Examples of genetic variation affecting twinning rate, infertility, endometriosis and age at menarche demonstrate that the spectrum of disease-related variants for reproductive traits is similar to most other common diseases. GWAS 'hits' provide novel insights into biological pathways and the translational value of these studies lies in discovery of novel gene targets for biomarkers, drug development and greater understanding of environmental factors contributing to disease risk. Results also show that genetic data can help define sub-types of disease and co-morbidity with other traits and diseases. To date, many studies on reproductive traits have used relatively small samples. Future genetic marker studies in large samples with detailed phenotypic and clinical information will yield new insights into disease risk, disease classification and co-morbidity for many diseases associated with reproduction and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- G.W. Montgomery
- Department of Genetics and Computational Biology, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Australia
| | - K.T. Zondervan
- Genetic and Genomic Epidemiology Unit, Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - D.R. Nyholt
- Department of Genetics and Computational Biology, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Australia
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