The Effects of the Dietary and Nutrient Intake on Gynecologic Cancers

Investigating Ayurvedic Strategies: An In-Depth Examination of Managing Diabetes across Different Types

In light of the escalating global concern surrounding diabetes mellitus, contemporary medical practices predominantly hinge on pharmaceutical interventions, accompanied by inherent side effects and enduring limitations. This investigation accentuates a discernible research void regarding the amalgamation of Ayurvedic principles an age-old traditional medical system with prevalent approaches to diabetes management. Despite Ayurveda's promising potential in furnishing a comprehensive and personalized strategy for diabetes treatment, the imperative for further research and collaboration between Ayurvedic practitioners and contemporary healthcare professionals becomes evident. Existing scholarly works underscore the potential advantages of Ayurveda in delivering holistic diabetes care, encompassing not only glycemic control but also fostering overall well-being. Nevertheless, a closer examination reveals specific limitations, challenges, and gaps in current research, necessitating targeted efforts to enable a more exhaustive exploration of Ayurvedic interventions within diabetes management. This comprehensive review scrutinizes Ayurvedic recommendations pertaining to dietary practices, lifestyle adjustments, and herbal therapeutics, shedding light on their plausible efficacy. It serves as a clarion call for heightened research endeavors, aiming to bridge existing gaps and carve a pathway toward an integrated, patientcentric paradigm in diabetes care. In summary, as diabetes prevalence continues to rise globally, the study underscores the limitations of current pharmaceutical-centric approaches and highlights the need for extensive research and collaboration to unlock the full potential of Ayurvedic principles in providing a more holistic and personalized framework for diabetes management. The review navigates through Ayurvedic recommendations, emphasizing the urgency for intensified research efforts to fill existing gaps and pave the way for a seamlessly integrated, patient-focused approach to diabetes care.

Living in a food desert in Louisiana and its effects on gynecologic cancer outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Food insecurity is becoming recognized as an important measure of public health. Louisiana has a poorer health index and a higher food insecurity rate than the national average. This study aims to investigate how living in a food desert affects the stage at diagnosis and 5-year overall survival in patients with gynecologic cancers.

METHODS

Data on genital cancers diagnosed between 2015 and 2019 among Louisiana women aged 20 years and older were from the Louisiana Tumor Registry. The food desert data was based on the USDA Food Access Research Atlas (FARA). The covariates included in this study were race, age, insurance status, BMI, tobacco use, and Charlson Comorbidity Index. Univariate, multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard regression models were employed.

RESULTS

Food insecurity is independently associated with diagnoses at an advanced stage in patients with cervical and uterine cancer (OR = 1.41 [1.01, 1.96] and 1.28 [1.04, 1.58], respectively) after adjusting for covariates. This association was not observed in patients with ovarian cancer (OR = 0.94 [0.64, 1.39]). In evaluating overall survival at 5 years after initial diagnosis, patients living in a food desert have higher mortality rates across cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancers in the univariate analysis (OR = 1.27 [1.01, 1.60], 1.27 [1.07, 1.49], and 1.34 [1.10, 1.65], respectively); however, this significance is diminished in the multivariate analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Food insecurity affects gynecologic cancer morbidity and can offer an important point of intervention to increase cancer prevention initiatives and improve resources for underserved populations.

Drugs and drug targets for the treatment of HPV-positive cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is primarily driven by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) strains and remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where late-stage diagnoses is common. While vaccination and screening programs have reduced incidence rates, the need for novel and more effacacious and cost-effective therapeutic options is therefore critical especially for advanced cervical cancer. This review highlights several key advances in the understanding of HPV-induced carcinogenesis and the development of therapeutic strategies over the past five years. Important areas of focus include the role of HPV oncoproteins E5, E6 and E7 in modulating signalling pathways, treatment strategies for precancerous lesions, the potential of natural compounds to target cervical cancer cells, and the emergence of immunotherapies, checkpoint inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates, and novel drug combinations to treat cervical cancer. Additionally, lifestyle recommendations and the integration of natural supplements are discussed for their potential to enhance treatment efficacy and improve patient outcomes. The developments reported in this review underscore the evolving landscape of cervical cancer treatment and the need for continued research to validate and integrate these emerging therapies into clinical practice.

Nature of the Association between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Cervical Cancer and Its Potential Therapeutic Implications

It is now established that patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an increased risk of developing cervical cancer (CC) or its precursor, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). However, the underlying mechanisms of this association have not been elucidated. RA is characterized by unresolved chronic inflammation. It is suggested that human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in RA patients exacerbates inflammation, increasing the risk of CC. The tumor microenvironment in RA patients with CC is also marked by chronic inflammation, which aggravates the manifestations of both conditions. Gut and vaginal dysbiosis are also considered potential mechanisms that contribute to the chronic inflammation and aggravation of RA and CC manifestations. Numerous clinical and pre-clinical studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of various nutritional approaches to attenuate chronic inflammation, including polyunsaturated fatty acids and their derivatives, specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), probiotics, prebiotics, and certain diets. We believe that successful resolution of chronic inflammation and correction of dysbiosis, in combination with current anti-RA and anti-CC therapies, is a promising therapeutic approach for RA and CC. This approach could also reduce the risk of CC development in HPV-infected RA patients.

Emerging paradigms: unmasking the role of oxidative stress in HPV-induced carcinogenesis

The contribution of the human papillomavirus (HPV) to cancer is significant but not exclusive, as carcinogenesis involves complex mechanisms, notably oxidative stress. Oxidative stress and HPV can independently cause genome instability and DNA damage, contributing to tumorigenesis. Oxidative stress-induced DNA damage, especially double-strand breaks, aids in the integration of HPV into the host genome and promotes the overexpression of two viral proteins, E6 and E7. Lifestyle factors, including diet, smoking, alcohol, and psychological stress, along with genetic and epigenetic modifications, and viral oncoproteins may influence oxidative stress, impacting the progression of HPV-related cancers. This review highlights various mechanisms in oxidative-induced HPV-mediated carcinogenesis, including altered mitochondrial morphology and function leading to elevated ROS levels, modulation of antioxidant enzymes like Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Glutathione (GSH), and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx), induction of chronic inflammatory environments, and activation of specific cell signaling pathways like the Phosphoinositide 3-kinase, Protein kinase B, Mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) and the Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway. The study highlights the significance of comprehending and controlling oxidative stress in preventing and treating cancer. We suggested that incorporating dietary antioxidants and targeting cancer cells through mechanisms involving ROS could be potential interventions to mitigate the impact of oxidative stress on HPV-related malignancies.

Understanding the HPV associated cancers: A comprehensive review

Human papillomavirus (HPV), a common cause of sexually transmitted diseases, may cause warts and lead to various types of cancers, which makes it important to understand the risk factors associated with it. HPV is the leading risk factor and plays a crucial role in the progression of cervical cancer. Viral oncoproteins E6 and E7 play a pivotal role in this process. Beyond cervical cancer, HPV-associated cancers of the mouth and throat are also increasing. HPV can also contribute to other malignancies like penile, vulvar, and vaginal cancers. Emerging evidence links HPV to these cancers. Research on the oncogenic effect of HPV is still ongoing and explorations of screening techniques, vaccination, immunotherapy and targeted therapeutics are all in progress. The present review offers valuable insight into the current understanding of the role of HPV in cancer and its potential implications for treatment and prevention in the future.

Impact of Production Systems on the Levels of Vitamin E, β-Carotene, and Cholesterol in the Liver of Cattle Raised in the Eastern Amazon

The nutritional composition of bovine liver, particularly in terms of vitamins E, β-carotene, and cholesterol concentration, is significantly influenced by the cattle-rearing system and diet. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of four predominant cattle-rearing systems in the Eastern Amazon region on the vitamin E, β-carotene content, and cholesterol levels in bovine liver during the rainy season. Liver-tissue samples were collected from 48 cattle, with twelve specimens representing each rearing system. The systems encompassed two native pastures located in flood-prone areas, cultivated pastures on upland terrain and a confinement-rearing system. Our findings indicate that, when considering all rearing systems collectively, there were no significant differences in the levels of vitamins and cholesterol in the liver tissues (p > 0.05). However, a marked disparity in cholesterol levels emerged when comparing intensive rearing systems to extensive ones, with the former demonstrating notably higher concentrations (p = 0.01). Additionally, the intensive rearing system was associated with elevated levels of β-carotene (p < 0.01), α-tocopherol (p = 0.01), and β-tocopherol (p = 0.01) relative to the extensive systems. No significant variations were observed amongst the different extensive systems (p > 0.05). These results suggest that, while all rearing systems yielded liver tissues with typical concentrations of vitamins and cholesterol, the intensive rearing system led to a higher accumulation of certain vitamin compounds. This study highlights the substantial nutritional implications of different cattle-rearing systems in the Eastern Amazon and provides valuable insights for developing dietary strategies to optimize the nutritional quality of bovine liver. Therefore, the generated results are groundbreaking in the Eastern Amazon, Brazil, and inspire the development of new research projects to address other demands in this field and achieve additional outcomes.

Vitamins in Gynecologic Malignancies

The combination of vitamin A and D derivatives with classical chemotherapeutic treatments results in more satisfactory outcomes. The use of drug combinations, such as 9cUAB130 with carboplatin and cisplatin with TAC-101, shows enhanced cytotoxic effects and reductions in ovarian tumor volume compared to single-drug treatments. Combining cisplatin with calcitriol and progesterone increases VDR expression, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of anticancer therapy in ovarian cancer. The effectiveness of vitamin derivatives in anticancer treatment may vary depending on the characteristics of the tumor and the cell line from which it originated. An increase in thiamine intake of one unit is associated with an 18% decrease in HPV infection. Higher intake of vitamin C by 50 mg/day is linked to a lower risk of cervical neoplasia. Beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E are associated with risk reductions of 12%, 15%, and 9% in endometrial cancer, respectively. A balanced daily intake of vitamins is important, as both deficiency and excess can influence cancer development. It has been observed that there is a U-shaped relationship between group B vitamins and metabolic markers and clinical outcomes.

The emerging roles of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19 in gynecologic cancers

Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19 has gained significant recognition as a pivotal contributor to the initiation and advancement of gynecologic cancers, encompassing ovarian, endometrial, cervical, and breast cancers. H19 exhibits a complex array of mechanisms, demonstrating dualistic effects on tumorigenesis as it can function as both an oncogene and a tumor suppressor, contingent upon the specific context and type of cancer being investigated. In ovarian cancer, H19 promotes tumor growth, metastasis, and chemoresistance through modulation of key signaling pathways and interaction with microRNAs. Conversely, in endometrial cancer, H19 acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Additionally, H19 has been implicated in cervical and breast cancers, where it influences cell proliferation, invasion, and immune evasion. Moreover, H19 has potential as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for gynecologic cancers, with its expression levels correlating with clinical parameters and patient outcomes. Understanding the functional roles of H19 in gynecologic cancers is crucial for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies and personalized treatment approaches. Further investigation into the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying H19's involvement in gynecologic malignancies is warranted to fully unravel its therapeutic potential and clinical implications. This review aims to elucidate the functional roles of H19 in various gynecologic malignancies.

Impact of Dietary Quality on Genital Oncogenic Human Papillomavirus Infection in Women

BACKGROUND

Most cervical cancers are directly linked to oncogenic or high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection. This study evaluates associations between diet quality and genital HPV infection in women.

METHODS

This study included 10 543 women from the 2003-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The outcome was the genital HPV infection status (HPV-negative, low-risk [LR] HPV, and HR-HPV). Dietary quality was evaluated using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI), in which a higher score indicates a better diet quality.

RESULTS

Women who did not consume total fruits (15.8%), whole fruits (27.5%), or green vegetables and beans (43%) had a significantly higher risk of HR-HPV infection than women who complied with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (HR-HPV odds ratio = 1.76, 1.63, and 1.48 for a HEI score of 0 vs 5, respectively) after adjusting confounding factors. Similar results of these food components on LR-HPV infection were found. In addition, intake of whole grains and dairy was inversely associated with LR-HPV infection.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that women who did not eat fruits, dark-green vegetables, and beans had a higher risk of genital HR-HPV infection. Intake of these food components is suggested for women to prevent HPV carcinogenesis.

The effects of dietary supplements in patients with cervical cancer: a comprehensive systematic review

Background

Recent studies reported that complementary therapy including dietary supplements may has a beneficial role in cervical cancer. However, the results are inconsistent. This study aimed to investigate the association between cervical cancer and dietary supplements.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted to summarize and quantify the most recent findings on dietary supplement and cervical cancer. Several databases were checked for relevant publications published in English up to March 2023. Of the 32 articles identified, only 20 met the inclusion criteria and were included.

Results

Women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia may benefit from folate supplementation against oxidative stress and inflammation. Vitamin D may reduce oxidative stress and may have a therapeutic effect. Zinc promotes the clearance of the human papilloma virus and reduces the chance of viral infection. The use of probiotic supplements may improve the complications associated with chemotherapy in patients with cervical cancer, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy complications may also be reduced by omega-3 fatty acids.

Conclusion

Some dietary supplements including folate, vitamin D, zinc, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids may have beneficial effects in patients with cervical cancer. Further studies are warranted to confirm these results.

Association between Dietary Vitamin E Intake and Human Papillomavirus Infection among US Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is responsible for most genital, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers, in which men contribute significantly to infection and subsequent tumorigenesis in women. Vitamin E has been shown to be associated with vaginal HPV infection and cervical cancer. However, the association of vitamin E consumption with HPV infection among the overall population remains unclear. We investigate the association between vitamin E consumption and genital and oral HPV infection in both men and women. We used cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2013 and 2016 to collect details on their dietary vitamin E intake, genital and oral HPV infection status, and other essential variables. In total, 5809 participants aged 18-59 years were identified, with overall prevalence of high-risk and low-risk HPV infection of 23.7% and 21.1%, respectively. Compared with the lowest vitamin E group Q1 (<5.18 mg/day), the adjusted OR for vitamin E consumption and overall high-risk HPV infection in Q2 (5.18-7.54 mg/day), Q3 (7.55-10.82 mg/day), and Q4 (>10.82 mg/day) were 0.91 (95% CI: 0.81-1.03, p = 0.134), 0.77 (95% CI: 0.69-0.87, p < 0.001), and 0.72 (95% CI: 0.65-0.80, p < 0.001), respectively. Restricted cubic spline regression showed a linear relationship between vitamin E consumption and overall high-risk HPV infection. This linear relationship also existed for vitamin E consumption and overall low-risk HPV infection. After being stratified by gender and site, vitamin E consumption was inversely related to vaginal low- and high-risk HPV infection, penile high-risk HPV infection, and male oral low-risk HPV infection. In conclusion, we identified inverse linear relationships between dietary vitamin E intake and overall high- and low-risk HPV infection. Future well-designed longitudinal studies are still required to validate the impact of vitamin E on HPV carcinogenesis.

Dietary Approach of Patients with Hormone-Related Cancer Based on the Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load Estimates

Hormone-related cancers, namely breast, endometrial, cervical, prostate, testicular, and thyroid, constitute a specific group of cancers dependent on hormone levels that play an essential role in cancer growth. In addition to the traditional risk factors, diet seems to be an important environmental factor that partially explains the steadily increased prevalence of this group of cancer. The composition of food, the dietary patterns, the endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and the way of food processing and preparation related to dietary advanced glycation end-product formation are all related to cancer. However, it remains unclear which specific dietary components mediate this relationship. Carbohydrates seem to be a risk factor for cancer in general and hormone-related cancers, in particular, with a difference between simple and complex carbohydrates. Glycemic index and glycemic load estimates reflect the effect of dietary carbohydrates on postprandial glucose concentrations. Several studies have investigated the relationship between the dietary glycemic index and glycemic load estimates with the natural course of cancer and, more specifically, hormone-related cancers. High glycemic index and glycemic load diets are associated with cancer development and worse prognosis, partially explained by the adverse effects on insulin metabolism, causing hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance, and also by inflammation and oxidative stress induction. Herein, we review the existing data on the effect of diets focusing on the glycemic index and glycemic load estimates on hormone-related cancers.

Association of dietary intake and cervical cancer: a prevention strategy

INTRODUCTION

Cervical cancer is one of lethal cancers in women. As a global concern, identifying important factors of cancer is a useful strategy for prevention. Due to the role of diet/nutrition factors for cancer, the purpose of our study was to determine the impact of 150 nutrition/vitamin factors and 50 non-nutritional factor in cervical cancer and phase.

METHODS

Population samples of 2088 healthy subjects and patients with cervical cancer were investigated. 200 factors such as vitamin E, B1, B6, fruits, HPV, and age were gathered. Deep learning, Decision tree, and correlation matrix were used for modeling and identifying important factors. SPSS 26, R4.0.3, and Rapid miner were utilized for implementation.

RESULTS

Our findings indicated that zinc, Iron, Niacin, Potassium, Phosphorous, and Cooper have a beneficial impact in reducing the risk of cervical cancer and progression of phase in Iranian women, as well as Salt, snacks and milk Were identified as high-risk food factors (P value < 0.05 and coefficient correlation > 0.6). Also, alcohol, and sex patient with two groups, HPV positive have an impact on cervical cancer incidence. Phosphorus and selenium in the Micronutrients category (R² = 0.85, AUC = 0.993) and polyunsaturated fatty acid and salt in the Macronutrients category and other categories of nutrients were identified as the most effective factors in cervical cancer using deep learning (R² = 0.93, AUC = 0.999).

CONCLUSIONS

A diet and rich nutrition can be helpful for the prevention of cervix cancer and may reduce the risk of disease. Additional research is necessary for different countries.

The associations of tobacco use, sexually transmitted infections, HPV vaccination, and screening with the global incidence of cervical cancer: an ecological time series modeling study

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to quantify the temporal associations between cervical cancer incidence and cervical cancer-related factors and to predict the number of new cervical cancer cases averted under counterfactual scenarios compared to the status quo scenario.

METHODS

We described temporal trends in cervical cancer and associated factors globally from 1990 to 2019. We then used generalized linear mixed models to explore the impact of tobacco use, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, and cervical screening on cervical cancer incidence. A counterfactual analysis was performed to simulate the most effective scenario for reducing cervical cancer incidence.

RESULTS

The worldwide incidence of cervical cancer showed a downward trend over the past 3 decades (estimated annual percentage change, -0.72%), although the incidence remained high (>30 cases per 100,000 persons) in sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Higher smoking and STI prevalence showed significant direct associations with the incidence of cervical cancer, whereas HPV vaccination and screening coverage showed significant inverse associations. If the strategic goals for accelerating the elimination of cervical cancer and tobacco control programs had been achieved in 2019, the largest decrease in the number of new cervical cancer cases would have been observed, with 54,169 fewer new cases of cervical cancer in 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

Our counterfactual analysis found that a comprehensive intervention program emphasizing scaled-up cervical screening coverage (70%), HPV vaccination coverage (90%), and tobacco control (30% relative reduction) would be the most effective program for reducing cervical cancer incidence.

Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplementation on Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions-Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL) is a cytologic diagnosis etiologically related to human papilloma virus (HPV) infection that leads to the release of inflammation mediators, the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased levels of antioxidants in tissues, which is why antioxidants might be considered effective against SIL progression. This randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) supplementation (600 mg/day) on the regression of low-grade SIL in 100 patients. Low-grade SIL was determined after the cytological screening, colposcopic examination and targeted biopsy and histological confirmation of cytological−colposcopic diagnosis. Inflammation parameters and the presence of HPV were determined by standard laboratory methods. Dietary and lifestyle habits were investigated using a standardized and validated semi-quantitative food questionnaire (FFQ). ALA supplementation significantly reduced the proportion of patients with low-grade cytological abnormalities, in comparison to placebo. Given the obtained level of significance (p < 0.001), the presented results indicate that short-term ALA supplementation shows a clinically significant effect on cervical cytology. Future studies should focus on the use of innovative formulations of ALA that might induce bioavailability and therapeutic efficiency against HPV infection and the investigation of synergistic effects of concurrent dietary/lifestyle modification and ALA supplementation in both low-grade and high-grade SIL.

Fermented Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) Supplementation in the Prevention of HPV-Induced Cervical Cancer: From Mechanisms to Clinical Outcomes

Simple Summary

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is connected with virtually all cases of cervical cancer. The viral infection-associated chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and alterations in apoptosis have been considered as leading risk factors for carcinogenesis in humans. In an observational clinical study, we identified oxidative markers and the cervical/circulating ligands of TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis involved in HPV-associated cervical carcinogenesis. In the following clinical trial, 250 females infected with high-cancer-risk HPV16/18 (healthy and pre-cancerous) were recruited into a placebo-controlled clinical study of supplementation with fermented mangosteen (FM, 28g/day, daily) for three months. Our findings indicate that FM, and not a placebo, in combination with routine anti-viral therapy, could prevent, slow down, or even interrupt HPV-associated cervical carcinogenesis, mainly through the suppression of leukocyte recruitment into infected tissue, through anti-inflammatory effects, and through the restoration of nitric oxide metabolite-initiated TRAIL-dependent apoptosis.

Abstract

In the observational clinical study, we identified the oxidative markers of HPV-associated cervical carcinogenesis and the local/circulating ligands of TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis. Cervical biopsies of 196 females infected with low-cancer-risk HPV10/13 or high-cancer-risk HPV16/18 (healthy, pre-cancerous CIN I and CIN II, and CIN III carcinoma) were analysed for OH radical scavenging, catalase, GSH-peroxidase, myeloperoxidase (MPO), nitrate/nitrite, nitrotyrosine, and isoprostane. Ligands of TNF-alpha-dependent apoptosis (TNF-alpha, TRAIL, IL-2, and sFAS) were determined in cervical fluid, biopsies, and serum. Cervical MPO was highly enhanced, while nitrotyrosine decreased in CIN III. Local/circulating TRAIL was remarkably decreased, and higher-than-control serum TNF-alpha and IL-2 levels were found in the CIN I and CIN III groups. Then, 250 females infected with HPV16/18 (healthy and with CIN I and CIN II) were recruited into a placebo-controlled clinical study of supplementation with fermented mangosteen (FM, 28g/day, daily) for three months. Post-trial colposcopy revealed normal patterns in 100% of the FM group versus 62% of the placebo group. Inflammatory cells in cervical fluid were found in 21% of the FM group versus 40% of the placebo group. Locally, FM drastically diminished MPO and NO₂/NO₃, while it remarkably increased TRAIL. Additionally, FM supplementation normalised serum TRAIL, TNF-alpha, and IL-2.

Antioxidant and inflammatory potential of diet among women at risk of cervical cancer: findings from a cross-sectional study in Italy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association of Composite Dietary Antioxidant Index (CDAI) and Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) with the prevalence of high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted on women with abnormal Papanicolaou test, who underwent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) screening and histological test through colposcopy. Dietary data were collected using a FFQ and used to assess both CDAI and DII.

SETTING

Women were recruited from 2012 to 2015 at the Cervical Cancer Screening Unit of the 'Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale' of Catania (Italy).

PARTICIPANTS

The study included 539 women with a mean age of 40·2 years, who were classified as cases (n 127 with CIN2 or more severe lesions) and controls (n 412 with normal cervical epithelium or CIN1).

RESULTS

Although we observed a lower proportion of HPV-positive women among those with higher CDAI (P < 0·001), the index was not associated with the diagnosis of CIN2 or more severe lesions. By contrast, women with medium or high DII showed higher odds to be diagnosed with CIN2 or more severe lesions than those with low DII (OR = 2·15; 95 % CI 1·11, 4·17; P = 0·024 and OR = 3·14; 95 % CI 1·50, 6·56; P = 0·002, respectively), after adjusting for age, HPV status, educational level, BMI, smoking status, parity, use of oral contraceptives and supplements.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that a pro-inflammatory diet might be associated with an increased risk of CIN2 and more severe lesions. However, further prospective studies should be encouraged to support this evidence.

Women's perception of cervical cancer pap smear screening

Aim

The study examines limiting factors associated with cervical cancer Pap smear screening among participants of reproductive age attending a healthcare facility in Namibia.

Design

A cross‐sectional descriptive and exploratory study was conducted.

Methods

The data were collected using a face‐to‐face interview (qualitative) and a structured questionnaire (quantitative). A total of 49 participants (10 qualitative and 39 quantitative) aged 17–45 years participated in the study.

Results

The study revealed that 80% of participants have limited knowledge of cervical cancer, while 49% have never done the test before and 8% were not informed of the screening and risk of the disease. Furthermore, 49% of participants responded that the screening fees are not affordable. Meanwhile, all participants (100%) complained of the long waiting period. Other main barriers for not screening were missed announcements and unsuitable time allocation. Knowledge on cervical cancer and turn‐up for Pap smear screening test was low among participants of reproductive age.

Ovarian Cancer: Applications of Chickens to Humans

The lack of preclinical models of spontaneous ovarian cancer (OVCA), a fatal gynecological malignancy, is a significant barrier to generating information on early changes indicative of OVCA. In contrast to rodents, laying hens develop OVCA spontaneously, with remarkable similarities to OVCA in women regarding tumor histology, OVCA dissemination, immune responses, and risk factors. These important features of OVCA will be useful to develop an early detection test for OVCA, which would significantly reduce mortality rates; preventive strategies; immunotherapeutics; prevention of resistance to chemotherapeutics; and exploration of gene therapies. A transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) imaging method for imaging of hen ovarian tumors has been developed. Hens can be monitored prospectively by using serum markers, together with TVUS imaging, to detect early-stage OVCA, provided that a panel of serum markers can be established and imaging agents developed. Recent sequencing of the chicken genome will further facilitate the hen model to explore gene therapies against OVCA.

Effects of Isoflavone Supplementation on the Response to Medroxyprogesterone in Premenopausal Women with Nonatypical Endometrial Hyperplasia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of isoflavone supplementation compared with placebo on endometrial histology and serum estradiol levels in premenopausal women with nonatypical endometrial hyperplasia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present double-blindplacebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 100 women with nonatypical endometrial hyperplasia in the age range of 30 to 45 years. Participants were randomly assigned to receive 50 mg of isoflavone (n = 50) or placebos (n = 50) daily for three months. Both groups received the standard treatment of nonatypical endometrial hyperplasia. Endometrial biopsy and blood samples were taken at the baseline and three months after the intervention. The incidence of drug side effects was assessed as well.

RESULTS

After three months, 88.4% of isoflavone-administered subjects had a significant histological improvement compared to 68.9% subjects in the placebo group (P=0.02). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the changes of serum estradiol levels and the incidence of drug side effects.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the present study demonstrated that the coadministration of 50 mg of isoflavones and medroxyprogesterone acetate increases the treatment efficacy in women with nonatypical endometrial hyperplasia. Clinical Trial Registration. This trial was registered on the Iranian website for clinical trial registration (https://www.irct.ir/trial/53553).

Screening Plasma Exosomal RNAs as Diagnostic Markers for Cervical Cancer: An Analysis of Patients Who Underwent Primary Chemoradiotherapy

This preliminary study aimed to screen non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) from plasma exosomes as a new method for cervical cancer diagnosis. Differentially expressed RNAs were initially selected from among a group of 12 healthy individuals (normal group) and a pretreatment group of 30 patients with cervical cancer (cancer group). Then, we analyzed the association between an ncRNA-mRNA network and cancer using ingenuity pathway analysis after secondary selection according to the number and correlation of mRNAs (or ncRNAs) relative to changes in the expression of primarily selected ncRNAs (or mRNAs) before and after chemoradiotherapy. The number of RNAs selected from the initial RNAs was one from 13 miRNAs, four from 42 piRNAs, four from 28 lncRNAs, nine from 18 snoRNAs, 10 from 76 snRNAs, nine from 474 tRNAs, nine from 64 yRNAs, and five from 67 mRNAs. The combination of miRNA (miR-142-3p), mRNAs (CXCL5, KIF2A, RGS18, APL6IP5, and DAPP1), and snoRNAs (SNORD17, SCARNA12, SNORA6, SNORA12, SCRNA1, SNORD97, SNORD62, and SNORD38A) clearly distinguished the normal samples from the cancer group samples. We present a method for efficiently screening eight classes of RNAs isolated from exosomes for cervical cancer diagnosis using mRNAs (or ncRNAs) altered by chemoradiotherapy.

The Involvement of Natural Polyphenols in the Chemoprevention of Cervical Cancer

From all types of cancer, cervical cancer manages to be in top four most frequent types, with a 6.5% rate of occurrence. The infectious vector that induces the disease, the high-risk Human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted virus, is capable of transforming the host cell by modulating some of the principal signaling pathways responsible for cell cycle arrest, proliferation, and survival. Fortunately, like other cancer types, cervical cancer can be treated by chirurgical interventions or chemoradiotherapy, but these methods are not exactly the lucky clover of modern medicine because of the adverse effects they have. That is the reason why in the last years the emphasis has been on alternative medicine, more specifically on phytochemicals, as a substantial number of studies showed that diet contributes to cancer prevention and treatment. All these studies are trying to find new chemopreventive agents with less toxicity but high effectiveness both in vitro and in vivo. The aim of this review is to evaluate the literature in order to underline the advantages and disadvantages of polyphenols, a class of dietary compounds, as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents. This review also aims to present polyphenols from different perspectives, starting with mechanisms of action and ending with their toxicity. The bigger picture illustrates that polyphenols have great potential in cervical cancer prevention, with strong effects on gene modulation.

Role of Vitamin E in Selected Malignant Neoplasms in Women

Vitamin E, which is actually a mixture of eight isoforms (four tocopherols and four tocotrienols), is a powerful antioxidant that protects polyunsaturated fatty acids against oxidation and has the ability to break the chain lipid peroxidation, which is used in the treatment of heart disease, atherosclerosis, muscle disorders or infertility among men. Studies in-vitro show that one of the effects of tocopherol is the reduction of cancer stem cell activity which is connected to poor clinical course. In the scientific literature, reports on the participation of vitamin E not only in protection against the mutagenic effects of reactive oxygen species, but also in its anti-angiogenic activity and the ability to inhibit the invasion and metastasis of neoplastic cells are increasingly common. In this context, the role of vitamin E in preventing the neoplastic process and selected malignant neoplasms among women seems to be of particular interest. In this article, we present the results of research on the potential anticancer effects of vitamin E in the fight against breast, cervical, endometrial and ovarian cancer.

Vitamin A deficiency in K14E7HPV expressing transgenic mice facilitates the formation of malignant cervical lesions

Infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer (CC), but viral infection alone does not guarantee the development of this malignancy. Indeed, deficiencies of dietary micronutrients could favor cervical cancer development in individuals that harbor HR-HPV infections. The status of retinoid levels, natural and synthetic derivatives of vitamin A, is important in maintaining cellular differentiation of the cervical epithelium. Moreover, many studies show a link between deficient intake of retinoids or alteration of the retinoid receptors and CC development. In spite of this, the effect of vitamin A deficiency (VAD) in presence of HR-HPV oncoproteins on cervical carcinogenesis in vivo has not been reported. Transgenic mice expressing E6 or E7 oncoproteins (K14E6 or K14E7 mice, respectively) were used to evaluate the possible role of VAD in the development of malignant cervical lesions. The survival of the mice in VAD condition was studied, and histopathological analysis and immunohistochemical detection of molecular cancer markers such as the tumor suppressor retinoic acid receptor beta (RARβ), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cleaved caspase 3, and the tumor suppressor protein p16^INK4A (inhibitor of CDK4) were performed. Our results show that K14E6/VAD mice showed moderate cervical dysplasia; notably, K14E7/VAD mice developed severe cervical dysplasia and cervical in situ carcinoma at an early age. VAD synergizes with HPV16E7 oncoprotein expression favoring cervical carcinogenesis in vivo.

The interplay between the vaginal microbiome and innate immunity in the focus of predictive, preventive, and personalized medical approach to combat HPV-induced cervical cancer

HPVs representing the most common sexually transmitted disease are a group of carcinogenic viruses with different oncogenic potential. The immune system and the vaginal microbiome represent the modifiable and important risk factors in HPV-induced carcinogenesis. HPV infection significantly increases vaginal microbiome diversity, leading to gradual increases in the abundance of anaerobic bacteria and consequently the severity of cervical dysplasia. Delineation of the exact composition of the vaginal microbiome and immune environment before HPV acquisition, during persistent/progressive infections and after clearance, provides insights into the complex mechanisms of cervical carcinogenesis. It gives hints regarding the prediction of malignant potential. Relative high HPV prevalence in the general population is a challenge for modern and personalized diagnostics and therapeutic guidelines. Identifying the dominant microbial biomarkers of high-grade and low-grade dysplasia could help us to triage the patients with marked chances of lesion regression or progression. Any unnecessary surgical treatment of cervical dysplasia could negatively affect obstetrical outcomes and sexual life. Therefore, understanding the effect and role of microbiome-based therapies is a breaking point in the conservative management of HPV-associated precanceroses. The detailed evaluation of HPV capabilities to evade immune mechanisms from various biofluids (vaginal swabs, cervicovaginal lavage/secretions, or blood) could promote the identification of new immunological targets for novel individualized diagnostics and therapy. Qualitative and quantitative assessment of local immune and microbial environment and associated risk factors constitutes the critical background for preventive, predictive, and personalized medicine that is essential for improving state-of-the-art medical care in patients with cervical precanceroses and cervical cancer. The review article focuses on the influence and potential diagnostic and therapeutic applications of the local innate immune system and the microbial markers in HPV-related cancers in the context of 3P medicine.

Nutrition in Gynecological Diseases: Current Perspectives

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.

Associations of Dietary Glycemic Index, Glycemic Load and Carbohydrate with the Risk of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Cervical Cancer: A Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

The association of dietary glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) with the risk of cervical cancer has never been investigated. Thus, we aimed to find evidence of any association of GI and GL with the risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer.

METHODS

In this hospital-based case-control study, we included 1340 women (670 controls and 262, 187 and 221 patients with CIN1, CIN2/3, and cervical cancer, respectively) from the Korean human papillomavirus cohort study. Completed demographic questionnaires and semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaires were collected. The association of dietary GI and GL with CIN and cervical cancer was estimated using a logistic regression model.

RESULTS

The multivariate odds ratios (OR) of the highest compared with the lowest quintile of GL for CIN1 were 2.8 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.33-5.88). Dietary GI and GL were not associated with CIN2/3 and cervical cancer. Stratified analyses by body mass index (BMI) indicated a positive association between GI and GL and CIN 1 risk among women with a BMI (in kg/m2) <23 (OR = 2.94; 95% CI = 1.32-6.53; p for trend = 0.031 for GI and OR = 3.15; 95% CI = 1.53-6.52; p for trend = 0.013 for GL), but not among those with a BMI of ≥23. A stratification analysis by menopausal status showed that the highest quintile of GI and GL was significantly associated with the risk of CIN1 (OR = 2.91; 95% CI = 1.43-5.96; p for trend = 0.005) (OR = 2.96; 95% CI = 1.53-5.69; p for trend = 0.023) among premenopausal women. Also, in HPV positive women, dietary GL showed significant CIN1 risk (OR = 2.61; 95% CI = 1.09-6.24; p for trend = 0.087).

CONCLUSION

Our case-control study supports the hypothesized associations of dietary GI and GL with increased risk of CIN1. Thus, the consumption of low GI and GL foods plays a significant role in the prevention of cervical carcinogenesis.

Association of Thiamine Intake with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection in American Women: A Secondary Data Analysis Based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2003 to 2016

Background

Studies have shown that thiamine intake is associated with cervical cancer, but the relationship between thiamine and HPV infection remains unclear. In the present study, we used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database to investigate whether HPV infection was associated with thiamine intake.

Material/Methods

A total of 13 471 women ages 18–59 years were selected from the NHANES database from 2003 to 2016. Using thiamine intake as the independent variable, HPV infection as the dependent variable, and sociodemographic data and other data as the covariates, we analyzed the relationship between thiamine and HPV infection by conducting a weighted logistic regression model in a cross-sectional research design.

Results

The two-piecewise linear model indicated the inflection point of thiamine intake was 2.07 mg. On the left side of the inflection point, the difference in the thiamine intake of log2 conversion was related to the difference of 0.82 in HPV infection, which means that the increase of every 1 unit increase in thiamine intake is associated with the decrease of the HPV infection by 18%. On the right side of the inflection point, we did not observe a correlation between HPV infection and thiamine intake.

Conclusions

Thiamine intake is negatively correlated with HPV infection. Intake of an appropriate amount of thiamine can prevent HPV infection. The best preventive effect can be achieved when the intake is about 2 mg, and excessive intake will not increase the preventive effect.

The Preventive Effect of Dietary Antioxidants on Cervical Cancer Development

Cervical cancer results from a continuous process, starting from a normal cervical epithelium after human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and progressing to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), before finally developing into invasive squamous carcinoma (ISC). In recent decades, dietary antioxidants, such as vitamins, have received much attention in relation to cancer prevention. We reviewed the relevant literature to investigate the dietary and nutrient intake on cervical cancer. The intake of vitamins A and D and carotenoids may inhibit early cervical cancer development. The intake of folate may prevent or inhibit HPV infection rom progressing to various grades of CIN. The intake of vitamins C and E may widely inhibit the process of cervical cancer development. Polyphenols are often used in cases of cervical cancer in combination chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Regarding nutrients, different antioxidants may have differing abilities to intervene in the natural history of cervical diseases associated with HPV infection. Regarding foods, the intake of both vegetables and fruits containing multiple vitamins may widely suppress cervical cancer development. Most previous papers have described epidemiological studies. Thus, further research using in vitro and in vivo approaches will be needed to clarify the effects of the dietary and nutrient intake in detail.

Association between Dietary Vitamin A and HPV Infection in American Women: Data from NHANES 2003-2016

Objective

Evidence regarding the relationship between vitamin A and HPV infection was limited. Therefore, this study is designed to investigate whether vitamin A was independently related to HPV infection in 13412 American women from NHANES for seven cycles.

Methods

The present study is a cross-sectional study. A total of 13412 eligible participants who had available HPV tests and vitamin A intake data were registered in the NHANE database from 2003 to 2016. The targeted independent variable and the dependent variable were vitamin A measured at baseline and HPV infection, respectively. We analyzed the association between dietary vitamin A intake and the prevalence of HPV infection. Besides, GAM and smooth curve fittings were used to address the nonlinear relationship between vitamin A and HPV infection to determine the effect of HPV infection.

Results

The result of fully adjusted binary logistic regression showed vitamin A was not associated with the risk of HPV infection after adjusting confounders (odds ratio = 0.97, 95% confidence interval: 0.97-1.02). A nonlinear relationship was detected between vitamin A and HPV infection, whose inflection point was 10.5 of log2 vitamin A (by the recursive algorithm). One unit increase of log2 vitamin A is associated with the 10% reduced risk of HPV infection when dietary vitamin A is < 1448.155mcg. Conversely, when the dietary vitamin A intake is ≧1448.155 mcg, for each additional log2 of vitamin A, the risk of HPV infection increased by 70%.

Conclusions

We found that dietary vitamin A was quite different from the trend of HPV infection in different confidence intervals. The results suggested that an appropriate amount (95% CI: 0.9-1.0, <10.5 of log2 transformer, i.e., 1448.155 mcg) of dietary vitamin A may be beneficial to prevent HPV infection. However, excessive intake of dietary vitamin A (95% CI: 1.1-2.8, ≧10.5 of log2 transformer, i.e., 1448.155 mcg) may increase the risk of HPV infection.

The Preventive Effect of Dietary Antioxidants Against Cervical Cancer Versus the Promotive Effect of Tobacco Smoking

Uterine cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women, and its etiology has been recognized. High-risk human papilloma virus (HR-HPV) infection induces an opportunity for malignant transformation. This paper discusses the current issues based on a review of the literature and compares the impact of the dietary and nutrient intake to the impact of tobacco smoking on cervical cancer development. The important roles of diet/nutrition in cervical cancer are as prophylaxis against HR-HPV infection. Antioxidant vitamins can inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells, stabilize the p53 protein, prevent DNA damage, and reduce immunosuppression. In contrast, tobacco smoking not only causes DNA adducts and strand breaks, but it independently causes an increased viral load in HR-HPV-infected cells. Tobacco smoking induces the heightened expression of E6 and E7 and can inhibit the immune system response to HPV. What happens when two materials, which have opposite effects on cervical cells, are taken in at the same time? The negative effects of tobacco smoking may be stronger than the positive effects of vitamins, vegetables, and fruits on the regression of cervical disease such as cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). A relatively low intake of vitamins, vegetables, and fruits in combination with tobacco smoking was most associated with a high incidence of cervical neoplasia.