A study (published in the journal, Lancet, December 2010) reports that compared with placebo, taking 75 mg of aspirin per day (one baby aspirin=81 mg) for 4 years or more reduced the risk of dying from a variety of common cancers. These results were identified through a meta-analysis of 8 placebo-controlled randomized trials (comparing placebo vs. aspirin), in 25,570 patients. These studies were designed to explore the long-term effects of aspirin.
They found the following risk reduction in cancer deaths:
- prostate cancer (10% risk reduction)
- lung cancer (30% risk reduction)
- colon, rectal, pancreatic, and stomach cancers (40% risk reduction)
- esophageal and throat cancers (60% risk reduction)
The researchers suggest that the best time to start taking a low-dose baby aspirin would be in a person’s mid-40′s, the time when the risk of most cancers begins to rise significantly.
Aspirin has many anti-cancer effects, including encouraging precancerous/cancerous cell death (“apoptosis”) and acting as a systemic anti-inflammatory agent.
Recent studies have also shown that aspirin may significantly reduce the risk of developing precancerous colon polyps and prostate cancer recurrence (by up to 50%!)
If you are not currently taking aspirin but have been considering it, I recommend first discussing the potential risks and benefits with your health care team. Serious risks are uncommon but can be exacerbated (i.e. bleeding, stomach ulcers/gastritis, etc.) by co-existing medical problems as well as numerous medications.
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