- Aspirin is a familiar drug that has been used for many years to prevent and treat a variety of health complications and relieve minor pains. Researches have found that high doses of aspirin, if taken for many years, can have significant anti-cancer effects. Because of these findings, the buzz about aspirin for the prevention of colorectal cancer has had many wondering whether aspirin therapy is a sound health decision, and how prevention can be achieved.
- The use of aspirin for colorectal cancer prevention, though effective for some, is not recommended for all individuals because of the increased incidence of gastrointestinal complications, including GI bleeding. It is also thought that those who regularly take aspirin may be nearly twice as likely to experience other GI symptoms, such as nausea or dyspepsia (upset stomach that may include nausea, belching, pain and bloating). The United States Preventive Services Task Force does not endorse the routine use of aspirin for the prevention of colon cancer due to these risks. See Resources for more information.
- The use of aspirin, however, for the prevention of colorectal cancer may benefit patients at high risk of colorectal cancer, specifically those with a history of cancer or polyps. The proof is positive for some aspirin users in a study done on participants in the US, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Denmark. This study explored the efficacy of aspirin in preventing recurring adenomas. Two low and high dose studies were done, as well as two high-dose-only studies (81 to 160 mg per day and 300 or 325 mg per day of aspirin). The results upon follow up (33 months later) revealed a higher percentage of patients on placebos as opposed to the aspirin users, developed adenomas. See Resources for exact findings.
