Can an Aspirin a Day Keep Cancer Away?
For years, researchers have been studying what may sound like an unlikely connection. They’re exploring the relationship between aspirin use and the risk for ovarian cancer, one of the leading causes of death for women with cancer.
The most recent findings were published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, compiling 17 studies — the largest analysis of aspirin use and ovarian cancer. This meta-analysis concludes that frequent aspirin use is associated with a 13% reduction in ovarian cancer risk. This potential benefit even includes women with a high risk for ovarian cancer. For those with two or more risk factors (except endometriosis), frequent aspirin use was associated with a 19% risk reduction.
Will these new findings impact risk reduction efforts with patients at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center? Potentially, says Marilyn Huang, M.D., FACOG, a gynecologic oncologist with the University of Miami Health System.
Before recommending aspirin or any medical intervention for cancer prevention, “We need to weigh and discuss the unique risks and potential benefits for each patient,” she says.
Researchers think frequent aspirin use may be especially helpful to maximize the benefits of chemoprevention programs for higher-risk women.
While this news is promising, best practices and protocols in clinical settings haven’t changed yet. Don’t start or stop an aspirin regimen before consulting with your doctor.
Learn more about your unique risk for ovarian cancer.
Contact Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of UHealth, at 1-844-324-HOPE (4673) or
Dana Kantrowitz is a regular contributor for UHealth’s news service.
Tags: cancer care in Miami, Dr. Marilyn Huang, ovarian cancer risk
