Beta blockers in heart medications can improve ovarian cancer survival: study

Beta blockers are designed to help block the stimulatory effects of adrenaline which could affect the beating and pumping of the heart. This medication is often prescribed in people with high blood pressure to avoid adding stress to the heart, chest pain and angina. Incidentally, a new study has discovered that beta blockers can also be beneficial for women who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

UPI reports that based on a study conducted by the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, ovarian cancer individuals who takes beta blockers as treatment for their hypertension have a potential to live longer as compared to other patients suffering from the disease. This is based on a review of 1425 patient records.

Out of all the participants, 269 are said to be taking beta blockers. The researchers have discovered that there is an increased survival rate in these beta blocker users, from 42 months to an impressive almost 48 months. Furthermore, it is most efficient in patients taking nonselective beta blockers, with an increase to almost 95 months.

Dr. Anil Sood, lead author of the study, shared that what is most interesting about their finding is that these women have been diagnosed with at a higher stage of ovarian cancer, has a higher BMI, and are more at risk of getting high blood pressure, Medical Daily writes. Dr. Sood explained these are factors suggestive of decreased health condition and yet, they have been noted to have better chances of cancer survival due to their use of beta blockers.

The researchers believe this could be a good start for looking at possible ovarian cancer treatment and would benefit cancer patients in the long run. American Cancer Society states that although this type of cancer rarely occurs, it is still consider as one of the deadliest diseases in the world.

However, experts believe clinical trials must be conducted first before interpreting the results as treatment and cure, Health Day states. Dr. Christina Annunziata from the US National Cancer Institute explained that safety of usage must be determined first by doctors, especially if the patients do not have high blood pressure.

Fortunately, two new clinical trials are on their way for testing which could verify its safety for ovarian cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Dr. Annunziata shared that if the beta blockers are proven to be safe for use, further studies are still to be conducted to identify which women will benefit best from its use and at what stage of the treatment it should be given.

The study is published on the journal Cancer on Aug. 24.