Regular use of low-dose aspirin may be able to slow or halt the progression of colorectal cancer, particularly in right-sided colon cancers, compared to those on the left side. While the exact reason for this effect is not clear, researchers believe that aspirin may enhance the immune response against cancer cells. However, experts warn that daily aspirin use can lead to gastrointestinal or brain bleeding, so the risks and benefits should be carefully considered before starting an aspirin regimen.
A recent study published in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, examined tissue samples from individuals with colorectal cancer who took aspirin regularly and those who did not. The researchers found that those who used aspirin had lower rates of cancer spreading to lymph nodes and higher levels of immune cell infiltration in their tumors. When cancer cells were exposed to aspirin in the lab, there was an increase in the protein CD80, which enhances immune cells’ ability to detect tumor-associated proteins.
However, there were limitations to the study, such as its retrospective and observational nature, self-reported aspirin use, and a small sample size. Despite these limitations, experts believe that the findings are significant and provide valuable information on the potential benefits of low-dose aspirin for colorectal cancer. The study highlighted the importance of considering the location of the cancer within the colon, as right-sided and left-sided colon cancers have different epidemiology, pathology, and prognosis.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer can vary depending on the location of the cancer within the colon, with right-sided colon cancer often presenting with blood in the stool, anemia, and unexplained weight loss, while left-sided colon cancer may show symptoms like changes in bowel habits, constipation, and narrow, ribbon-shaped stools. Research has shown that there is a poorer prognosis for right-sided colon cancer compared to left-sided cancers, making it crucial to consider the location of the cancer when determining treatment options.
While low-dose aspirin has been widely recommended for heart and stroke prevention due to its blood-thinning effects, recent concerns have been raised about potential side effects, including bleeding in the brain or gastrointestinal tract. The USPSTF advises against starting a daily aspirin regimen for cardiovascular disease prevention in individuals over 60 years of age, particularly those at a higher risk of bleeding. It is important for healthcare providers to carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of aspirin therapy for each individual based on their health history and potential risk factors.
