Daily intake of low-dose aspirin is not an effective and safe method for preventing colorectal cancer in the general population. This conclusion was reached by scientists from Sichuan University in China, who analyzed data from ten clinical trials involving approximately 125,000 people at average risk of developing cancer. The results, published in the prestigious journal 'Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews,' challenge previous discussions and recommendations that suggested possible benefits from the routine use of this popular anti-inflammatory drug.

Clinical Trial Results

Chinese scientists analyzed data from ten clinical trials, primarily from Europe and North America, involving approximately 125,000 people at average cancer risk. In seven of them, low-dose aspirin (75-100 mg) was used, and in three, higher doses.

Lack of Protective Effect

The study did not show that daily aspirin supplementation effectively reduces the risk of developing colorectal cancer in the general population. This applies to both low and higher doses of the drug.

Risk of Serious Bleeding

The authors warn that daily aspirin intake is associated with an immediate risk of serious bleeding. The potential benefits in cancer prevention do not outweigh these risks.

Challenging Previous Suggestions

The study addresses controversies in recent years, as in the USA and other countries, there were discussions and even temporary recommendations for the routine use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, in preventing colorectal cancer.

Daily intake of aspirin is not an effective method for preventing colorectal cancer in individuals without elevated cancer risk. This clear stance is presented by scientists led by Zhaolun Cai from Sichuan University in China, who published the results of a meta-analysis in the renowned journal 'Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.' The team analyzed data from approximately 125,000 participants across ten clinical trials, seven of which involved low-dose aspirin (75-100 mg daily).Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), have been used for over a hundred years as pain relievers, fever reducers, and anti-inflammatory agents. Their potential role in cancer prevention, particularly colorectal cancer, has been intensively studied in recent decades, based on the theory that chronic inflammation may promote the development of cancer cells. The study found that in the group of people taking aspirin daily, there was no statistically significant reduction in the incidence of colorectal cancer compared to control groups that took a placebo or did not use the drug. The lack of evidence for a protective effect applied to both low and higher doses. „Although the idea that aspirin may prevent colorectal cancer long-term is fascinating, our analysis...” — Zhaolun Cai The authors note that they did not study the effect in high-risk groups, such as individuals with a family history of the disease, nor did they compare aspirin with other drugs from the same group, such as ibuprofen, because the analyzed studies lacked appropriate comparison groups. The scientists simultaneously emphasize the long-known risks associated with chronic aspirin intake, which include serious gastrointestinal bleeding. In their view, in light of the latest data, the potential, unproven benefits in cancer prevention do not justify this immediate and real risk. The publication responds to discussions and temporary recommendations that have emerged in recent years, including in the United States, suggesting the routine use of NSAIDs to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Currently, the primary methods of prevention remain a healthy lifestyle and regular screening tests, such as colonoscopy.

Mentioned People

  • Zhaolun Cai — Lead author of the study, scientist from Sichuan University in China.