Cervical carcinoma in the Maltese population

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Buttigieg, George G. | Savona-Ventura, Charles | Vella, Katia | Cassar, Olivianne

Affiliations: Department of Obstetrics–Gynaecology, Mater Dei University Hospital, University of Malta, Tal-Qroqq, Msida, Malta

Note: [] Corresponding author: Prof. C. Savona-Ventura, Department of Obstetrics–Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine & Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, Malta. Tel.: +356 21435396; E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract: Background: The incidence rates of cervical carcinoma are closely associated with the degree of promiscuous sexuality experienced by a population. Methods: The study reviews the registered incidence and mortality data of this malignancy in the Maltese population and relates the observed trends to the increasing sexual promiscuity and HPV infections experienced by the population. Results: The observed recent fall in malignancy rates have been offset by an apparent rise in premalignant conditions identified by the cervical screening program in force on the Islands. Much of the observed rise in premalignant conditions appears to be related to the influence of HPV cervical infection. Conclusions: Strict vigilance to identify potentially malignant conditions and institute timely treatment remains the cornerstone for maintaining control of this disease. The introduction of protective vaccines against HPV should serve to reduce the size of the problem further.

Keywords: Cervix, malignancy, incidence, mortality

DOI: 10.3233/JRS-2008-0446

Journal: International Journal of Risk and Safety in Medicine, vol. 20, no. 4, pp. 223-230, 2008