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Semin Reprod Med 2010; 28(3): 204-217
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1251477
Published in 2010 by Thieme Medical Publishers

New Directions in the Epidemiology of Uterine Fibroids

Shannon K. Laughlin1 , Jane C. Schroeder2 , Donna Day Baird3
  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
  • 2Environmental Health Perspectives, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Morrisville, North Carolina
  • 3Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
22 April 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Although uterine leiomyomata (fibroids) have been the leading indication for hysterectomy in the United States for decades, the epidemiological data on fibroid prevalence and risk factors are limited. Given the hormonal dependence of fibroids, most earlier studies focused on reproductive or hormonal factors. Recent analyses have extended that focus to other areas. We present previously unpublished data on the association between reproductive tract infections and fibroids that highlight the need for more detailed studies. Our review suggests that metabolic, dietary, stress, and environmental factors may also play a role in fibroid development.

KEYWORDS

Uterine leiomyoma - epidemiology - reproductive tract infection - sexually transmitted disease - metabolic factors - diet - environment

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Donna Day BairdPh.D. 

Epidemiology Branch, A3-05, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

P.O. Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

Email: baird@niehs.nih.gov