Dr. Kust writes for the portal Jutarnji list Živim.hr and in a new article talks about the incredible connection between aspirin and one of the most common forms of cancer. Below is the full article.
Colon cancer (colorectal cancer) is a significant public health problem worldwide, globally it is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women. While various preventive measures continue to be investigated, one intriguing possibility is the use of aspirin, a widely available and commonly used drug. Studies to date suggest that aspirin may play a role in reducing the risk of colon cancer, providing a potentially simple and cost-effective strategy to prevent this disease.
The large intestine consists of the colon and the rectum, and malignant tumors arising in one of these two areas are collectively called colorectal cancer. Risk factors for developing this disease include age, family history, certain genetic conditions, lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity, and inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease). As a rule, the disease is not hereditary. It often begins as a benign protrusion of the intestinal mucosa (polyp), which can eventually develop into a malignant tumor. Early detection and removal of polyps is therefore crucial in disease prevention and is performed during colonoscopy.
Aspirin: a common drug with potential benefits
Aspirin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is commonly used to relieve pain, lower fever, and prevent cardiovascular events/diseases. Its potential role in cancer prevention has attracted considerable interest. The idea that aspirin could reduce the risk of cancer stems from its ability to inhibit the so-called cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which play a role in inflammation and cell division (proliferation) - processes involved in cancer development.
A number of studies have investigated the link between aspirin use and the risk of colon cancer. One major comprehensive analysis published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that regular aspirin use was associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of colorectal cancer. The mechanisms by which aspirin may reduce the risk of colon cancer are multiple. By inhibiting the previously mentioned COX-2 enzyme, aspirin reduces inflammation and the production of compounds called prostaglandins, which are involved in stimulating tumor growth. In addition, the antiplatelet effect of aspirin can prevent the spread of cancer cells by reducing the formation of blood clots that can serve as pathways for metastasis.
Current medical recommendations and considerations
Although the potential benefits of aspirin in reducing the risk of colon cancer are promising, it is important to approach this preventive measure with caution. Aspirin use is not without risks, especially with long-term use, including gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers ("sores") and stroke. Therefore, it is critical that individuals consult a physician before starting regular aspirin therapy, especially those at higher risk of side effects, in order to weigh the risk-benefit ratio in the individual patient.
Current oncology guidelines do not recommend routine aspirin use for colon cancer prevention in the general population. However, the situation is different for individuals at high risk of colon cancer, such as patients with inflammatory bowel disease or a significant genetic predisposition, in whom said therapy often brings benefit to the patient. According to recent research, people who smoke and/or are obese are also at increased risk, but for the time being, it is not possible to unambiguously determine whether the use of aspirin is justified in this population, although there are certain positive indications. Personalized medical advice is paramount in determining the appropriateness of aspirin use in each case.
Conclusion
Aspirin's potential to reduce the risk of colon cancer represents a promising avenue in cancer prevention research. Although the evidence supports its protective effect, it is necessary to carefully weigh the individual risks and benefits in each individual separately in discussion with the physician.
You can view the original article at the link .
留言