POET
A new trial is investigating whether a type of contraceptive coil could help prevent womb cancer in women who are at a high risk of the disease.
The POET study (prevention of endometrial tumours) is designed to see whether the Mirena Intrauterine System (IUS) can cut the rate of endometrial cancer (cancer of the womb lining).
The IUS is a contraceptive device which is inserted into the womb and releases a synthetic hormone called progestogen. It works by creating a thick mucus plug in the entrance to the womb, blocking the entry of sperm. It also makes the lining of the womb thinner and less able to nurture an egg. Scientists believe that this effect could be the key to preventing endometrial cancer.
The study is open to women who are at a high risk of developing endometrial cancer because they suffer from a hereditary condition called hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) - also known as Lynch syndrome.
These women have a 40-60 per cent chance of developing endometrial cancer at some point in their lives. In the general population, only two per cent of women will get the disease.
A pilot study of 15 women has shown promising results and now the researchers are looking for 220 more women to take part in a larger study which will run for four years.
To take part, women must be diagnosed with HNPCC, aged between 35 and 65 and not wanting to become pregnant whilst in the study. Each woman will get a check-up before they start the trial, including an ultrasound scan and a biopsy of the womb.
Only half of the women will be fitted with the IUS but all the women who take part will be closely monitored and will receive the best possible care, including an annual ultrasound scan.
For more information on the trial, please email the POET coordinating office at poet@cancer.org.uk
The trial is co-sponsored by Queen Mary, University of London and St George’s University of London, funded by Cancer Research UK and the IUS for the trial have been provided by Bayer Schering Pharma.
