REN and familial pancreatic carcinoma: However, findings from epidemiological studies are ambiguous.4–6 One study found that the use of drugs acting on the renin–angiotensin system had limited effect on pancreatic cancer risk in healthy individuals,4 but it was associated with an improved prognosis in pancreatic cancer patients.5 Other investigators suggested that beta-blockers could improve pancreatic cancer prognosis.6 Given their widespread use and generally favourable risk profiles, any potential anticancer properties of antihypertensive drugs is intriguing, as these could be used as both preventive and therapeutic agents.