Custom Clothes: Carrageenan Cancer

Carrageenan Cancer

Virtually all cervical cancers are caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, the most common sexually transmitted infection in young adults. According to the World Health Organization, cervical cancer is the second leading cause of female cancer deaths worldwide. But despite significant advances in the fight against HPV, many women are not yet reaping the benefits. HPV vaccines, for example, are too expensive for most women in developing countries. However, a safe, reliable, and inexpensive topical microbicide could protect women around the world from HPV infection and its potentially deadly consequences.Recent studies have shown that the common, low-cost gelling agent carrageenan (found in many food products) is an extremely potent inhibitor of HPV infection in vitro and in animal challenge models. Retrospective clinical data announced at the 2010 International Papillomavirus Conference held in Montreal, Canada, indicated that a carrageenan-based personal lubricant called Carraguard, developed by The Population Council, is effective for preventing HPV infection in women.Gelatinous extracts called carrageenans that come from the Chondrus crispus red seaweed—commonly used as food additives and in lubricants—may have anti-HPV properties.