Twins help in search for cervical cancer cure

Twins Ann Gill and Rhonda Lee are participating. N26HO410

A GLADSTONE Park woman is helping to find a cure for cervical cancer.

Ann Gill and her twin Rhonda Lee are part of a world-first study at the Royal Women's Hospital to find the link between cervical cancer and the human papilloma virus.

The Royal Women's Hospital and Melbourne University need thousands more twins for the study.

Ms Gill and Ms Lee have participated in medical studies as part of the Australian Twins Registry for more than 30 years.

Ms Gill said the study was easy, with her part consisting of simple paperwork.

She said finding a potential cure would be priceless.

"We both know a few people that have died from cancer so we will do anything we can do to help," she said.

Study co-ordinator Professor Suzanne Garland said about 80 per cent of women were exposed to HPV which, in some women, could lead to cervical cancer.

The study will examine why the disease progresses in some women and not others.

"Is it all a matter of genetics, or is it solely the impact of lifestyle factors such as smoking or stress?" asked Prof Garland.

"As twins are matched genetically, researchers can determine the subtle differences involved in the development of the disease."

Identical and non-identical female twins between ages 25-69 are being asked to sign up for the research.

(Edit:Ruby)