Aspirin Shown to Lower Colorectal Cancer Recurrence Risk, Landmark Study Finds
A daily low-dose aspirin regimen may substantially reduce the risk of cancer-al-marsad-newspaper/” title=”Don't ignore it.. 7 signs that you have colon … • Al Marsad newspaper”>colorectal cancer recurrence in patients with specific genetic characteristics, according to research published today in Annals of Oncology. The findings offer a potential new avenue for preventing cancer from returning after initial treatment, but experts caution that aspirin is not a worldwide solution and carries its own risks.
The international study,involving nearly 1,200 patients,revealed that individuals with high levels of the biomarker prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1) experienced a 35% reduction in cancer recurrence and a 32% improvement in overall survival when taking daily aspirin for at least two years following treatment for stage II or III colorectal cancer. Approximately half of all colorectal cancer patients exhibit high mPGES-1 levels.Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the United States, with an estimated 153,020 new cases expected in 2024, according to the American Cancer Society.
Researchers identified mPGES-1 as a key driver of cancer development and progression. aspirin’s ability to inhibit mPGES-1 appears to be the mechanism behind the observed benefit. “We’ve known for some time that aspirin can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, but this study helps us understand who is most likely to benefit,” explained Professor tim Meyer, lead author of the study from the University of Leeds. “By identifying the mPGES-1 biomarker, we can potentially personalize treatment and offer aspirin to those patients who will gain the most from it.”
the study participants had previously undergone surgery to remove their colorectal tumors. Following surgery, patients were randomly assigned to receive either 300mg of aspirin daily or a placebo for a minimum of two years. Biomarker analysis was conducted on tumor samples to determine mPGES-1 levels.
While promising, the findings do not advocate for widespread aspirin use. Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding and other side effects. researchers emphasize the importance of discussing the potential benefits and risks with a physician before starting any aspirin regimen, particularly for long-term use.further research is planned to refine patient selection criteria and optimize aspirin dosage for maximum benefit and minimal harm.
