New cervical cancer genetic mutations discovered

A comprehensive, genomic analysis of cervical cancer has shed new light on the condition that affects women's health the world over.

The study by scientists from the Boston area, Mexico and Norway unveiled two recurrent mutations that were not previously known to be associated with the condition.

Their work also revealed the role of human papillomavirus in the development of cervical cancer, which only adds to the significance of the findings, given that the disease is the second most common cancer among women, responsible for around ten per cent of female cancer mortalities.

Fortunately, targeted treatments that have been approved for other forms of the disease exist for one of the mutations, suggesting the recent research - published in Nature - could pave the way for potential treatment.

Commenting on what needs to be done in light of this knowledge, co-author Jorge Melendez from the National Institute of Genomic Medicine in Mexico City said: "Initiatives that promote joint efforts with developing countries will help to advance not only the knowledge of the shared and distinct biological aspects of cancer diseases, but also highlight local action items to impact public health."