Study finds link between beta-blockers and survival outcomes in some breast cancer patients

Reviewed by Emily Henderson, B.Sc.Sep 29 2020

New research led by Flinders University has found a link between beta-blockers and survival outcomes in some breast cancer patients.

Beta-blockers, commonly used to manage cardiovascular disease, were negatively associated with survival outcomes in patients with HER2 (Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2) positive advanced breast cancer, according to a new paper in the Frontiers In Oncology.

Using data collected from 2,777 patients in clinical trials, the study showed worse survival outcomes for patients with HER2 positive ABC group using concomitant beta-blocker, compared to patients not using a BB.

The research highlights a group of breast cancer patients whose survival outcomes are profoundly poorer. Given about 20% of breast cancer patients overexpress HER2 - and cardiovascular toxicities are a known complication anti-HER2 therapies - this study importantly identifies a subgroup of patients in which we recommend further investigation to find strategies to improve treatment outcomes."

Michael Sorich, Professor of Clinical Pharmacology, Director of the Precision Medicine Group at Flinders University's College of Medicine and Public Health

The research concluded: "Future research should aim to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of beta-blockers on specific breast cancer subtypes, cancer types, and cancer treatments."