CHLAMYDIA, HPV AND CERVICAL CANCER

The human papillomavirus (HPV), an infectious disease of the skin and inner membranes, is considered one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the world and a necessary agent of cervical cancer.

Research now shows that Chlamydia increases this risk.

New research on the effect of STDs on cervical cancer demonstrates that an infection with both HPV and Chlamydia extends HPV persistence in females.

Jeff Korte, Ph.D., principal investigator of a National Cancer Institute funded study and assistant professor at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), tracked HPV infections in 68 women with existing STDs to analyze the impact of genital infections over a two-year period. Korte found that HPV infections lasted longer if Chlamydia also was present. "HPV persistence is one of the most important risk factors for cervical cancer", said Korte.

"If an HPV infection persists longer, it is more likely to be accompanied by a serious lesion and progress to cancer".

[“Researcher Finds Link Between Chlamydia And Cervical Cancer,” Medical News Today, 03-15-08, http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/100749.php); POSTED: MAR 15, 2008, www.abstinence.net]
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2003 

Women with persistent chlamydial infection are at increased risk for developing cervical cancer.

[Reuters Health, 17Dec03; 24Dec03, Abstinence Clearinghouse]