Some studies say the drug has no connection to the disease whatsoever, and others feel it’s a risk as big as the sun.
If you’ve been following the news on erectile dysfunction drugs, you may have heard some scary stuff.
Back in 2014 it was reported that by taking the commonly used drug, you could be increasing your risk of developing the deadly skin cancer. It was said that taking Viagra upped your risk of developing melanoma by almost 100%.
A study conducted at the time found that men who took Viagra had an 84% increase in melanoma compared with those who didn’t take the drug at all.
Should you be concerned? Surprisingly the experts say, no. Harvard Medical School and a recent study done at New York University’s School of Medicine both agree that it’s a good idea to look at the details of what’s going on, to see the value.
Health Conscious Men
Harvard’s online medical page explains it. The first study in question found that 4.3 out of every 1,000 men who never took Viagra developed melanoma in their lifetime, compared with 8.6 out of every 1,000 men who did take Viagra. This was the 84% increase.
It’s not a lie, but when you look at what it means and how small the numbers are, you can see it’s likely not such a big worry. Yes, it’s there but likely not a cause for concern.
The latest study conducted at New York University’s School of Medicine went a step even further in its conclusion. The researchers involved in this one felt the increase in melanoma cases had nothing to do with the drug itself.
Scientists felt that men who took Viagra were more health conscious and simply more likely to get themselves to a doctor to be diagnosed with melanoma if and when they developped it. It’s called “detection bias,” and it’s being blamed for the difference.
So, what’s the hard and fast truth? It’s hard to say. It’s always a good idea to protect your skin with sunscreen and protective clothing, though whether you take Viagra or not. Stay safe, and stay healthy.
Photo credits: RobertChlopas/Bigstock; nito/Bigstock
