Danbury Research Study Seeking Best Treatment For High-Risk HPV

DANBURY — According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 10,000 women in the United States were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2005 and nearly 4,000 women died from the disease. High-risk human papillomavirus, otherwise known as high-risk HPV, is actually the “main cause of cervical cancer” according to The National Cancer Institute.

A medical research study, part of the Indigo for Women’s Health initiative, is now underway in Danbury, to determine if an investigational study gel is a safe and effective treatment for women with cervical high-risk HPV.

“It is important to understand that this is a sexually transmitted infection, and once you are exposed, HPV can cause long-term health problems,” said Dr Keith Aqua of Visions Clinical Research in Boynton Beach, Fla.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20 million people are currently infected with HPV and more than six million people acquire HPV each year. By age 50, at least 80 percent of women will have acquired a genital HPV infection.

The American Social Health Association indicates there are many different types of genital HPV, but only certain “high-risk” types are linked with cervical cancer. The association further states that cervical cancer is highly preventable if women receive regular Pap tests and that the majority of cervical cancer cases occur in women who have never had a Pap test or have not had one in the last five years.

“Approximately 95 percent of cervical cancer cases are caused by HPV,” said Dr Kyrin Dunston, president of Innovative Clinical Studies in Savannah, Ga. “This study is an opportunity for us to further the body of knowledge concerning the disease.”

The 27-month clinical research study is taking place in Danbury and about 71 other cities across the United States and Canada. Women age 18 to 40, who have received an abnormal Pap test result or diagnosis of cervical high-risk HPV are invited to see if they may qualify to participate.

A total of 16 office visits are required of participants. If qualified, participants will receive study gel, study-related medical exams, and lab tests at no charge.

Compensation for time and travel may also be available. For more info on the Indigo for Women’s Health high-risk HPV medical research study and how to participate, contact Dr Kevin Mitchell at 730-8789 or visit www.indigo4women.com.