Millions at increased risk of cancer

Filed in archive Studies on June 16, 2010

© NIOSH

Millions of people all over the world are potentially increasing their risk to cancer if they take angiotensin-receptor blockers, commonly known as ARBs. Studies that involved 60,000 people who take ARBs for heart problems, kidney problems, or, high blood pressure have shown that there is a link between ARBs and cancer.

While the results of the study indicate a 1% increase in cancer risk, given the huge number of people all over the world who take ARBs, the end result is a significant number of people who will potentially get cancer.

Doctors are saying it is too soon for people to stop taking the drug, and, as is always the case with these types of announcements, the drug manufacturuer, Boehringer Ingelheim Corp., say that their drugs are safe. The drug in question is called telmisatan but is known as Micardis.

If you are taking this drug you may wish to discuss continued use with your doctor.