A new study conducted by Curtin University will examine the link between long-term use of common blood pressure pills and the risks of getting breast cancer.
The lead researcher of the study Prof. Rachael Moorin said there were global concerns that the drugs could be causing an increase in breast cancer for women.
“The use of calcium channel blockers may increase the risk of cancer because of their role in changing intracellular calcium levels, and breast tissue may be particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of changing intracellular calcium due to its secretary role.”
Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) lower blood pressure by stopping calcium ions from entering smooth and heart muscle cells to induce contractions in the heart and arteries. Since muscle contractions are largely dependent on an influx of calcium, blockage results in relaxation, especially in the arteries….