Does COLIA1 SP1-binding site polymorphism predispose women to pelvic organ prolapse?

Introduction and hypothesis: COLIA1 polymorphism is associated with increased risk for stress urinary incontinence. We hypothesize that a similar association exists with pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Methods: Patients with advanced prolapse and healthy controls were evaluated by interview, validated questionnaires, and pelvic examination. DNA was extracted from peripheral blood, and polymerase chain reaction was performed to determine the presence or absence of the polymorphism. Power calculation indicated the need for 36 patients in each arm. Results: The prevalence of the polymorphic heterozygous genotype (GT) in the study and control groups was 33.3% and 19.4%, respectively, leading to an odds ratio of 1.75. This difference, however, did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.27). Conclusions: The COLIA1 polymorphism was not significantly associated with increased risk for POP.