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MEDTECH Growing Evidence Points to Cancer Risks in Widely Used Drugs, Amplified by Overseas Manufacturing
As healthcare professionals, we often prescribe medications like statins, hormonal contraceptives, and heartburn treatments, trusting their safety and efficacy. However, emerging research suggests that some of these commonly used drugs may carry an increased risk of cancer, a concern exacerbated by the US’s growing reliance on overseas drug manufacturers with less stringent quality controls.
HCN Medical Memo
These findings necessitate a reevaluation of our prescribing habits. Although the benefits of these medications often outweigh the risks, it’s crucial to consider the long-term implications, especially as the US becomes more reliant on overseas drug manufacturing. Patient education and regular monitoring are key to mitigating these risks.
Key Points
- Hormonal Contraceptives: A 2017 study in the New England Journal of Medicine found a small increased risk of breast cancer among women taking hormonal contraceptives, especially with longer duration of use.
- Statins: A 2011 study linked long-term statin use to higher risks of colorectal, bladder, and lung cancers.
- Heartburn Medications: The FDA recalled Zantac in 2020 due to high levels of the carcinogen N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA).
- Overseas Manufacturing: The US is increasingly relying on foreign manufacturers, raising concerns about quality control and safety.
- Perspectives: Healthcare professionals express concern over the US’s dependence on overseas drug makers, citing poorly conducted inspections and frequent FDA warnings.
Women taking hormonal contraceptives for 10 or more years see their risk of cervical cancer doubled, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Additional Points
- Cervical Cancer Risk: Women using hormonal contraceptives for over five years have higher rates of cervical cancer.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors: A 2023 study found that these drugs are associated with increased gastric cancer risk.
- Legislative Action: The House Energy and Commerce Committee has raised concerns about the safety of drugs manufactured overseas.
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