Big fuss about ARB study

Published: 2010-09-03

The EMA plans to review the possible risk of cancer in patients taking angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs), based on a meta-analysis in Lancet Oncology that suggested a “modest but significant” link between ARBs and cancer [1]. In particular telmisartan was associated with lung cancer.

However several hypertension experts are calling the paper deeply flawed. They contend that there is no clear pathophysiology to explain any ARB-cancer link and are worried that the publicity will deter patients prescribed ARBs from taking them, exposing them to cardiovascular and renal illness. Several opinion leaders spoke to the press at the recent European Society of Hypertension meeting and criticised the paper for omitting several important ARB trials and saying it is extremely unlikely that cancers would develop in such a short time period.

1. Lancet. doi:10.1016/S1470-2045(10)70106-6.