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Arthritis drug linked to cancer

According to a US study described in Yahoo News it has been found that drugs used to treat a range of illnesses including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and Crohns Disease can lead to an increased risk of cancer.

The study, carried out by the Mayo Clinic Analysed, found that patients treated with TNF blocking anti-bodies had 3.3 times the risk of developing cancer compared to those given a placebo.

However, Eric Matteson, a Mayo Clinic rheumatologist and senior study investigator did caution that the benefits of the drugs may outweight that of the risks. In a statement Mr Matteson said "TNF-blocking antibodies are absolutely the best drug for many patients. They have revolutionized the way we treat rheumatoid arthritis, especially in patients who do not respond to conventional therapies. So, I'm not looking to get rid of this therapy. I want to see it used safely."

The article goes on to state that patients prescribed TNF-blocking antibodies for rheumatoid arthritis should undergo appropriate cancer screening.


Source : Yahoo News
Date : 18/05/2006

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