Work

Can Propranalol Prevent Hepatocellular Carcinoma?

Year: 2012

Type: article

Abstract: β-Adrenergic signaling is involved in many processes that may contribute to cancer progression. In this issue of the journal (beginning on page 1007), Nkontchou and colleagues report their retrospective observational finding that the β-blocker propranolol was associated with a highly statistically significant reduction in the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with advanced cirrhosis and related esophageal varices. This surprising finding requires confirmation, but the result is biologically plausible. Epidemiologic studies have linked β-blockers with reduced rates of metastasis of other cancers and reduced cancer mortality. Laboratory studies suggest biologic mechanisms for anticancer effects of β-blockers.

Source: Cancer Prevention Research

DOI: 10.1158/1940-6207.capr-12-0247

Authors: W. Thomas London, Katherine A. McGlynn

Institutions: Fox Chase Cancer Center, National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics

Language: English

Topic: Cancer, Stress, Anesthesia, and Immune Response

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute