Breakthrough Meta-Analysis: Daily Aspirin Does Not Prevent Colorectal Cancer

The latest scientific reports from February 2026 put an end to the long-standing debate about the role of aspirin in preventing gastrointestinal cancers. An international team of researchers conducted a large-scale meta-analysis of ten clinical trials, involving a group of 125,000 participants. The results are clear: daily intake of acetylsalicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin, does not reduce the likelihood of colorectal cancer in individuals who are not in a high genetic risk group. The analysis covered both low doses of the drug (from 75 to 100 mg) and standard doses. Scientists observed no measurable health benefits in an oncological context, which contradicts earlier, less comprehensive observations suggesting a protective effect of the preparation. It is worth noting that this publication constitutes a significant correction to medical guidelines, which in past years have often been ambiguous, and in some regions of the world even suggested routine use of NSAIDs as a form of chemoprevention.Research on colorectal cancers intensified at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries when it was noted that chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane could be a catalyst for neoplastic changes. Colorectal cancer remains one of the most common causes of cancer deaths in highly developed countries. Researchers pay particular attention to the risk-benefit balance resulting from chronic pharmacotherapy. While the benefits in cancer prevention turned out to be illusory, the risk of side effects remains real and high. Regular use of acetylsalicylic acid is associated with the danger of gastrointestinal bleeding and damage to the gastric mucosa. „Although the idea that aspirin may prevent colorectal cancer long-term is fascinating, our analysis shows that in people with average risk, these benefits do not occur.” — Zhaolun Cai Experts emphasize that the only effective and recommended form of prevention remains regular screening tests, including colonoscopy, and maintaining a diet rich in fiber. However, it should be remembered that the current conclusions do not apply to specific patient groups, such as individuals burdened with Lynch syndrome or hereditary colorectal cancer, where the mechanisms of drug action may be different. For the general population, this meta-analysis serves as a clear warning against the arbitrary use of painkillers for preventive purposes without clear cardiological indications.125 tys. — participants were included in the analysis of aspirin's effectiveness