H1-Antihistamine usage is associated with a decreased lung cancer risk: a nationwide observational study

H1 antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergic conditions and have also been investigated for potential anti-cancer properties. Kristiaan Proesmans, researcher at Ghent University, presented a nationwide observational study investigating the association between H1 antihistamine use and lung cancer risk in people treated with COPD medication.

The study included more than 700,000 people using COPD medication, representing a population at increased risk of lung cancer. H1 antihistamine users were compared with non-users, with analyses accounting for demographic characteristics, comorbidities, smoking status and general health status.

H1 antihistamine use was associated with an 18% lower risk of developing lung cancer. To investigate whether this association could be related to allergic conditions rather than antihistamine use itself, a subgroup analysis was performed in people with and without allergy-related phenotypes. The association remained in both groups, supporting the possibility that the observed relationship was not solely explained by underlying allergic disease.

These findings suggest a potential association between H1 antihistamine use and a lower risk of lung cancer. However, this was an observational study. Randomised controlled trials are needed to determine whether H1 antihistamines may have a protective effect against lung cancer.