(October 21, 2010 - Insidermedicine)

Taking aspirin over the long term may reduce the risk of developing colon cancer, according to research published online ahead of print in The Lancet.

Here is some information about colorectal cancer:

•    It refers to cancer that originates in the colon or rectum, usually in the inside lining

•    It is typically a fairly slow growing cancer that can often be cured if caught soon enough

•    Screening for colorectal cancer is usually performed through a stool test or colonoscopy

Researchers from the University of Oxford analyzed data on over 14,000 individuals who participated in one of four studies looking at the effects of taking aspirin on vascular health. Among these participants, 2.8% developed colorectal cancer during the 18 years of follow-up. The investigators looked at the relationship between taking aspirin and the risk of developing this cancer.

Using aspirin was associated with a 24% reduction in the 20-year risk of developing colon cancer and a 35% reduction in the risk of dying from this disease. Taking aspirin also reduced the risk of developing rectal cancer, but only slightly. Full benefits of aspirin were seen at doses of 75 mg a day and did not increase with higher doses. Taking 75 to 300 mg of aspirin a day for at least five years lowered the 20-year risk of developing any type of fatal colorectal cancer from 3.5% to 1.5%.

Today’s research suggests that taking aspirin daily could be a way to help prevent colon cancer. Never start aspirin therapy without first consulting your health care professional.