Multivariable analysis of association of beta-blocker use and survival in advanced ovarian cancer

In this study, we sought to evaluate the relationship between survival and beta blocker use in both the primary and interval debulking setting while adjusting for frequently co-administered medications. We performed a retrospective cohort study reviewing charts of women who underwent primary or interval cytoreduction for stage IIIC and IV epithelial ovarian cancer. The exposure of interest was beta-blocker use identified at the time of cytoreduction. The outcomes of interest were PFS and OS. We collected demographic/prognostic variables and information about use of aspirin, metformin, and statins. We used the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models in survival analyses. 534 women who underwent surgery for stage IIIC or IV ovarian cancer were included in the study. The median age at diagnosis was 64 and 84.8% of women had serous carcinoma. We identified 105 women (19.7%) on a beta-blocker of whom 94 (90%) were on a cardioselective beta-blocker. Additionally, 24 women (4.5%) were on metformin, 91 (17%) on aspirin, and 128 (24%) on a statin. In univariable analysis, beta-blocker users had a median overall survival of 29 months vs 35 months among non-users (hazard ratio HR = 1.52, p = 0.007). After adjustment for important demographic, clinical, and histopathologic factors, as well as use of other common medications, beta-blocker use remain associated with an increased hazard of death (adjusted HR 1.57, p = 0.006). In this retrospective study, we found that patients identified as being on a beta-blocker at the time of surgery had worse overall survival and greater risk of death when compared to those patients not on betablockers. Importantly, 90% of patients on beta-blockers were identified as being on a cardioselective beta-blocker. •Beta receptors have been found to be overexpressed in ovarian cancer cell lines.•Prior studies have reported mixed results regarding beta blockers and survival in ovarian cancer.•In this study, being on a beta blocker at the time of primary or interval debulking surgery was associated with decreased survival.