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Posted by on Apr 13, 2017 in Breast cancer | 0 comments

In a nutshell

This study investigated whether beta blockers (BB), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi), and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) have a beneficial effect on breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS; the time between diagnosis and death from BC). The use of BB was found to be associated with better BCSS survival.

Some background

BC survival has been increasing for many years, howeve,r many patients still experience recurrent disease and metastasis (cancer spread). Many factors influence the risk of recurrence and spread, including other existing conditions and the drugs used to treat them. BB drugs are commonly used to treat hypertension but have shown some potential in reducing tumor metastasis and recurrence as well as improving BCSS. Similarly, some studies have suggested ACEi and ARB may have a beneficial impact on cancer progression and development. However, these results are controversial and the full potential of these drugs in cancer treatment must still be determined.

Methods & findings

This analysis included the results of 11 separate studies encompassing 46,265 patients. There were 10 studies focusing on BB use and 7 which focused on ACEi/ARB use. The individual studies looked at different patient populations, various specific drugs and used different terms (some looked at BCSS, others at overall survival, or the time from treatment until death from any cause).

BB drugs were associated with a 56% decrease in the risk of BC-related death. None of the 7 studies investigating ACEi and ARB use found any association between these drugs and BC survival.

The bottom line

The study concluded that BB drugs were associated with a better BC-specific survival; however these results must be confirmed through clinical trials. No improvement in BC-specific or overall survival was found to be associated with ACEi or ARB use.

The fine print

The study relied on the results of several previous studies, some of which were based on the use of patient records. Due to the different definitions and measurements used in each study, the reliability of the results must be confirmed through independent clinical trials.

What’s next?

Discuss the pros and cons of additional BB treatment with your doctor.

Published By :

International journal of cancer. Journal international du cancer

Date :

Feb 24, 2016

Original Title :

Use of beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers and breast cancer survival: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

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