June 17, 2016 — Viagra and other erectile dysfunction drugs have been linked to an increased risk of melanoma (skin cancer) in yet another study, but researchers say it is likely due to sun exposure.
Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra were associated with a 14% increased risk of skin cancer in a study published by PLoS Medicine.
The conclusions were based on data from 150,000 men on the medications, compared to 560,000 men who did not. The authors did not have individual-level data on sun exposure, but they said the study “strongly suggests” sun exposure is responsible.
In other words, men who can afford erectile dysfunction medications spend more time outdoors and take more sunny vacations. The biggest risk-factor for melanoma is sun exposure.
Other recent studies have drawn similar conclusions. In 2014, JAMA published a study linking Viagra with an 84% increased risk of melanoma. Last year, another study published in JAMA found a 21% increased risk.
Pfizer is facing dozens of lawsuits from Viagra patients who were diagnosed with skin cancer. The cases are currently centralized in a federal Multi-District Litigation (MDL No. 2691). Reuters reports that judges overseeing the MDL have chosen Alabama plaintiffs’ lawyer Ernest Cory to lead the litigation.
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