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14 June 2010
Expert reaction to the meta-analysis on blood pressure treatments and cancer, as published in Lancet Oncology
Researchers in the US have found a possible link between a certain class of blood pressure drugs and the risk of developing cancer, after a review of 13 previous trials of the drugs.
Martin Ledwick, head information nurse at Cancer Research UK, said:
"It’s important that we try to understand all the side effects of drugs so that people can make an informed choice about their treatment. At the moment there isn’t enough evidence to draw any firm conclusions about how blood pressure drugs might affect cancer risk and this will need further investigation. People shouldn’t stop taking these drugs on the basis of this research, if they’re concerned they should speak to their GP."
Dr Tim Chico, Deputy Director NIHR Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit, MRC Centre for Developmental and Biomedical Genetics, University of Sheffield, said:
"This study does not prove that these drugs cause cancer, although it is certain that lowering blood pressure save lives by preventing strokes and heart attacks. If people taking medication are worried about possible side effects, I recommend they discuss this with their GP."
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