The Interplay Between Secondhand Cigarette Smoke, Genetics, and Cervical Cancer: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Research has suggested a link between smoking and cervical cancer; however, little data are available on secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure and cervical cancer risk. This article reviews the literature on the links among smoking, SHS exposure and cervical cancer. The review was based on a search of electronic databases. The research reviewed clearly showed that smoking increases cervical cancer risk through myriad mechanisms that interact with genetics and the pathologic processes leading to cervical cancer. However, less is understood about the role of SHS in cervical cancer. With new technology enabling scientists to examine how genomic structure responds to environmental stimuli, more information should be forthcoming on links between SHS exposure, biomarkers, and genetic changes involved in the development of cervical cancer.

Oxidative stress in female cancers

“…Genetic, host or environmental cofactors are related to the ability of HR-HPV to persist into the tissue with an increased risk to promote cancer development. Genetic polymorphisms, immune status and environmental carcinogens, among others, may indicate an increased risk of HR-HPV-mediated carcinogenesis [ 23 , 24 ].…”

Association between oral contraceptives and cervical cancer: A retrospective case–control study based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

“…In recent years, with the increasing number of female smokers, smoking as one of the risk factors of cervical cancer ( Roura et al, 2014 ) was further studied. Some studies ( Pate et al, 2009 ; Su et al, 2018 ; Kim et al, 2021 ) showed that passive smoking also increased the risk of cervical cancer in females. In this study, the effect of current smoking on contraceptive use and cervical cancer can increase the risk of cervical cancer.…”

Factors Affecting Gynecologic and Sexual Assessment in Older Women: A Lesson for Primary Care Providers

“…Research has found that women who smoke have up to a five-fold increase in risk of cervical cancer [ 50 , 51 ] and presently 19.1% of women in the U.S. smoke [ 52 ]. Older women who were previous smokers and second hand smoke exposed are also at increased risk cervical dysplasia and therefore should be screened more carefully than those without other risk factors [ 53 ]. In addition, a genetic component identified in some women increases the risk of cervical cancer [ 54 ].…”

“…In addition, a genetic component identified in some women increases the risk of cervical cancer [ 54 ]. This link is likely enhanced by cigarette smoking [ 53 ]. Thus, women who smoke should be considered at higher risk for vulvar and vaginal cancers in addition to cervical cancers.…”