Positive Health Online

Abstract

MARTIN and COLLEAGUES, Department of Public Health Sciences, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA. martchan@email.unc.edu  explored the association between micronutrients and uterine fibroids.

Background

Although uterine fibroids are among the most common gynaecologic conditions affecting women in the United States, research on uterine fibroids is sparse.

Methodology

The authors conducted a population-based, cross-sectional analysis of 887 women aged 20-49 who participated in the 2003-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Serum micronutrient levels were collected during the health examinations, and information on uterine fibroids was assessed on self-reported questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) while controlling for confounders.

Results

A statistically significant dose-response relationship was observed between vitamin A and uterine fibroids, after adjustment for age, race, education, body mass index (BMI), and oral contraceptive (OC) use (middle vs. low: OR 2.43, 95% CI 1.35-4.37; high vs. low: OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.16-6.10, p for trend=0.02). After adjustment, a dose-response relationship also emerged for vitamin C, although these associations were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

It is possible that certain micronutrients affect uterine fibroid development. If this is confirmed in large prospective studies, clinicians could advise susceptible populations on dietary changes to reduce their risk of uterine fibroids.

References

Martin CL,  Huber LR,  Thompson ME,  Racine EF. Serum micronutrient concentrations and risk of uterine fibroids. Journal of Women's Health. 20(6): 915-22. Jun 2011.