Is NCI supporting research with statins to prevent other types of cancer?
NCI is developing a phase II placebo-controlled trial to evaluate whether lovastatin can reverse precancerous changes in atypical (so-called dysplastic) nevi, a precursor to melanoma skin cancer, and thus have the potential to prevent progression to melanoma. Ken Linden, M.D., Ph.D., a researcher in dermatology at the University of California, Irvine, will be leading this multicenter effort. The study will begin patient enrollment in late 2005 or early 2006. • What evidence is there that lipid-lowering drugs can prevent skin cancer? Two large cardiovascular clinical trials have demonstrated a significant reduction in skin cancer among patients taking lipid-lowering drugs. Although clinical data do not consistently show a decreased risk of skin cancer with statin use, various human trials and preclinical studies suggest that statins may have chemopreventive activity against skin cancer. • Where can I get more information? For more information about cancer, visit the NCI Web site at http
