Colorectal cancer ranks as the second most fatal cancer globally, with nearly 2,300 deaths attributable to it in Hong Kong each year. A recent study conducted in the United States has found that the regular consumption of aspirin may help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer over a follow-up period of 10 years. The protective effect appears to be more pronounced in individuals with type 2 diabetes. What mechanisms allow aspirin to help prevent cancer? Under what circumstances is its use most beneficial? Are there any potential side effects?
Study shows aspirin may lower colorectal cancer risk
Aspirin is a common ingredient in many anti-inflammatory medications. However, the above-mentioned study discovered that regular aspirin use could lower the risk of colorectal cancer. The findings were published on August 1 in “JAMA Oncology.”
Why can colorectal cancer be prevented? ⬇⬇⬇
Regular aspirin use has a notable impact on lowering colorectal cancer risk for two groups
The research team conducted a follow-up that lasted at least 10 years, analyzing data from over 107,000 participants with an average age of 49.9 years, taking into account factors such as weight, alcohol consumption, dietary habits, smoking status, and physical activity levels. Participants who consumed two or more standard-dose aspirin tablets weekly or six or more low-dose aspirin tablets weekly were categorized as regular users of aspirin.
The findings revealed that individuals who regularly take aspirin have an 18% reduced risk of colorectal cancer compared to those who do not take aspirin. Among these individuals, two particularly high-risk groups show a considerably lower risk of colorectal cancer—by more than 25%:
- Smokers
- Individuals who are overweight (BMI over 25)
One of the authors of the study, Daniel Sikavi, a gastroenterologist at Brigham General Hospital in Massachusetts, noted that this research indicates:
Aspirin can effectively reduce the risk of colorectal cancer among high-risk individuals. Moreover, individuals who lead healthier lifestyles typically have a lower cancer risk, which makes the anti-cancer effects of aspirin less pronounced in these groups compared to smokers and overweight individuals. Nonetheless, they can still gain benefits from taking aspirin.
Current research, however, has not confirmed the exact mechanisms by which aspirin reduces colorectal cancer risk; previous studies suggest that aspirin may inhibit certain cancer-promoting inflammatory processes.
Regarding the findings of this study, Jennifer Davids, the chief physician for colon and rectal surgery at Boston Medical Center, cautioned that the results do not imply that everyone should begin taking aspirin regularly, nor should individuals neglect healthy practices such as maintaining a balanced diet, exercising, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption, all of which can further reduce cancer risk. However, she acknowledged that the research is a significant step towards understanding who may derive the most benefit from aspirin use.
Can colorectal cancer polyps, the second deadliest cancer, progress to cancer?
In Hong Kong, colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer, with nearly 6,000 new cases confirmed in 2021 alone. Common symptoms of colorectal cancer are as follows:
The Hospital Authority notes that the large intestine is the final section of the digestive system, divided into the colon and rectum. Occasionally, the cells lining the large intestine proliferate abnormally, resulting in polyps, ulcers, or other masses. While most polyps are benign, a small percentage can progress to malignant tumors and develop into colorectal cancer.
According to the Hong Kong Cancer Online Resource Center, early-stage colorectal cancer may present no symptoms whatsoever. More common symptoms include:
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- A continued urge to defecate following a bowel movement; presence of blood, blackened, or mucous stools; rectal bleeding; and stools resembling thin strips
- Unexplained weight loss, abdominal bloating, intestinal cramps, cold extremities, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, asthma, pale complexion, dizziness, and other potential warning signs of colorectal cancer.
How to use aspirin? What are the side effects?
According to comprehensive information from theHong Kong Department of HealthandNHS, aspirin is an oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that can be used for various types of pain, including headaches, toothaches, and menstrual discomfort. To minimize stomach irritation, it is advisable to take it during or after meals.
How to take aspirin properly?
Taking aspirin tablets as an example, the standard dosage is typically 300mg. The general guidelines are as follows:
- Common dosage: 1-2 tablets per dose
- Dosing interval: every 4-6 hours (with a minimum of 4 hours between doses)
- Maximum dosage: Do not exceed 12 tablets within a 24-hour period
Potential side effects of aspirin:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches, etc.
Precautions when taking aspirin:
- If you have other medical conditions, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use.
- If you’re taking NSAIDs, avoid using other medications that contain similar ingredients simultaneously.
- If you experience vomiting blood or objects resembling coffee grounds, blood in your urine, black and loose stools, or any abnormal bleeding or bruising after taking the medication, seek medical attention immediately.
Aspirin has four main functions beyond pain relief, and five types of individuals should avoid it
Besides its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, theU.S. Food and Drug Administrationhas indicated that small doses of aspirin offer the following advantages:
Stroke
- Treatment for transient ischemic stroke
- Prevention of cardiovascular diseases and even mortality
Heart disease
- Decreased risk of death from acute heart attacks
- Prevention of heart disease recurrence
- Reduced risk of sudden death in patients with chronic angina
Other coronary artery diseases
- Suitable for patients who have undergone surgery for coronary artery disease
Rheumatism
Aspirin can alleviate symptoms of the following conditions:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Spinal joint disease
- Arthritis and pleurisy associated with systemic lupus erythematosus
Five categories of individuals should refrain from using aspirin
Generally, the following individuals should avoid aspirin to prevent health risks:
- Individuals allergic to aspirin or salicylates
- Individuals who frequently suffer from asthma
- Individuals with hypertension
- Individuals with severe liver or kidney disease
- Patients with bleeding disorders
Source: “JAMA Oncology Journals, Department of Health, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, NHS
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Colorectal Cancer and Aspirin: New Insights into Risk Reduction
Colorectal cancer is the second most lethal cancer globally, leading to nearly 2,300 deaths annually in Hong Kong alone. A recent study from the United States has shed light on the potential role of aspirin in reducing this risk, particularly after a decade of regular use. This article delves into how aspirin can prevent colorectal cancer, identifying key demographics that may benefit and discussing the side effects associated with its long-term consumption.
Study Reveals Aspirin May Reduce Colorectal Cancer Risk
Aspirin, a common anti-inflammatory medication, has gained attention in its potential role in cancer prevention. Published on August 1 in JAMA Oncology, the study tracked over 107,000 subjects for at least 10 years, noting habits such as alcohol consumption, weight, and exercise.
Why Can Colorectal Cancer Be Prevented? ⬇⬇⬇
Though the research does not definitively explain the mechanism behind aspirin’s effects, it suggests that the anti-inflammatory properties of aspirin may inhibit pathways that cause cancer-related inflammation.
Taking Aspirin Regularly: Most Effective for High-Risk Groups
Subjects who took two or more standard-dose aspirin tablets weekly, or alternatively, six or more low-dose aspirin tablets weekly, were categorized as regular users. The findings were notable:
- Regular aspirin users exhibited an 18% lower risk of colorectal cancer compared to non-users.
Particularly, two groups showed more than a 25% reduction in risk:
- Smokers
- Individuals classified as overweight (BMI over 25)
According to Daniel Sikavi, a gastroenterologist at Brigham General Hospital, this supports the idea that aspirin can significantly benefit high-risk individuals despite the overall lower cancer risk among healthier populations.
Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Recognized as the second deadliest cancer in Hong Kong, colorectal cancer had nearly 6,000 newly confirmed cases in 2021. Symptoms can often be non-specific and may include:
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Persistent urge to defecate despite having done so
- Presence of blood in stools, or stools that appear black and tarry
- Unexplained weight loss and abdominal discomfort
Be vigilant for these symptoms, as they may indicate the onset of cancer or polyps, which can evolve into malignant tumors.
How to Take Aspirin: Dosage and Side Effects
Aspirin, as an oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is generally safe when taken as directed. The Hong Kong Department of Health and the NHS offer the following guidelines for its use:
Recommended Dosage
| Dosage | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Dosage | 1-2 tablets at a time |
| Medication Interval | Every 4-6 hours (minimum 4-hour gap between doses) |
| Maximum Daily Dose | Do not exceed 12 tablets in 24 hours |
Aspirin Side Effects
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
Precautions When Taking Aspirin
- Consult a healthcare professional if you have underlying medical conditions.
- Avoid simultaneously taking other NSAIDs.
- Seek immediate medical attention for unusual symptoms such as blood vomiting or black stools.
Aspirin’s Multifaceted Benefits Beyond Pain Relief
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, aspirin offers numerous benefits beyond its analgesic properties:
Cardiovascular and Stroke Benefits
- Treats transient ischemic strokes
- Prevents heart disease and lowers mortality rates
Management of Rheumatism
Aspirin can alleviate symptoms in conditions like:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Spinal joint disease
Key Groups Who Should Avoid Aspirin
Despite its benefits, certain individuals should refrain from regular aspirin use:
- Individuals allergic to aspirin or salicylates
- Patients with asthma
- People with uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Those with severe liver or kidney issues
- Patients with bleeding disorders
For more comprehensive information, consult resources from JAMA Oncology, the NHS, and the FDA.
