Regular aspirin use has been linked to a lower likelihood of a number of common cancers including colo-rectal, esophageal, stomach, breast, prostate and lung. Researchers have been searching for an explanation for this phenomenon.
Now, scientists have completed a small study of patients with Barrett’s esophagus. This is a pre-malignant condition of the esophagus. Thirteen patients were followed for 6 to 19 years. Biopsies were collected periodically to track abnormal cell growth. Researchers examined the tissue for mutations and also tracked aspirin consumption over time.
While the patients were taking aspirin, their esophageal cells were far less likely to develop mutations. Aspirin seemingly put the brakes on DNA damage. The lead author speculates that the anti-inflammatory activity of aspirin might be responsible.
[PLOS Genetics, June 17, 2013]
You can read more about the anti-cancer action of aspirin. Although it is very inexpensive, aspirin is not appropriate for everyone. Find out more about its benefits and risks in our free Guide to Key Aspirin Information.
