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Calcium channel blockers and cancer
H J Cohen1, C F Pieper, J T Hanlon
1Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
The American Journal of Medicine
|March 21, 2000
Summary
Calcium channel blockers do not increase cancer risk in older adults. This study found no significant association, suggesting prior reports may have been due to chance.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Previous research suggested a potential link between calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and increased cancer risk.
- This association requires further investigation to confirm or refute its clinical significance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between the use of calcium channel blockers and the risk of developing cancer.
- To re-evaluate prior findings suggesting CCBs may elevate cancer risk.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study followed 3,511 elderly participants (age ≥65) for up to 10 years.
- Medication use (including CCBs) was recorded at baseline and at 3 and 6 years.
- Cancer incidence was determined through hospitalization records and death certificates.
Main Results:
- Among 133 CCB users, 16 (12%) developed cancer versus 548 (16%) of 3,378 nonusers.
- The hazard ratio for cancer in CCB users was 0.9 (95% CI, 0.5 to 1.5).
- Adjustments for covariates, CCB dose/class, and follow-up length did not alter the findings.
Conclusions:
- The use of calcium channel blockers is not associated with an increased risk of cancer.
- Earlier reports suggesting a link may be attributed to random chance or confounding factors.