Scientists have long understood that obesity and certain types of cancer go hand-in-hand. Aside from strongly recommending people lose weight, however, they have been at somewhat of a loss on how to help them decrease those cancer risks. In regard to colorectal cancer, it seems, aspirin might make a big difference.
Researchers at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom recently dove into the topic. The study focused on those with Lynch syndrome, a potential hereditary link to colorectal cancer. To find out what role aspirin played, they enrolled some 937 patients that had been diagnosed with Lynch syndrome. About half the group received 600 mg of aspirin a day and the other half a placebo. The overall results showed that cancer risk was about 2.5 times higher for overweight participants than those of normal weight. The findings also showed that those who took aspirin could counteract the risk by doing so. The study concluded the risk for developing cancer in the aspirin group was roughly the same regardless of weight.
Those involved in the study say the findings add more evidence to an already growing body that links the inflammatory process to increased risks for cancer. Since aspirin is an anti-inflammatory agent, it is believed this simple medication can help stave off cancer in many cases. The findings, researchers also say, demonstrate the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. In addition, they show that a regular dose of aspirin may very well help safeguard those without Lynch syndrome from develop colorectal cancers.
People who suffer from Lynch syndrome or other risks for colorectal cancer are urged to discuss screening with their healthcare providers. Colorectal cancer strikes men and women by the thousands each year, but often can be successfully treated if it is caught early. The key is understanding personal risk and undergoing screening when it is recommended.
Researchers at Newcastle University in the United Kingdom recently dove into the topic. The study focused on those with Lynch syndrome, a potential hereditary link to colorectal cancer. To find out what role aspirin played, they enrolled some 937 patients that had been diagnosed with Lynch syndrome. About half the group received 600 mg of aspirin a day and the other half a placebo. The overall results showed that cancer risk was about 2.5 times higher for overweight participants than those of normal weight. The findings also showed that those who took aspirin could counteract the risk by doing so. The study concluded the risk for developing cancer in the aspirin group was roughly the same regardless of weight.
Those involved in the study say the findings add more evidence to an already growing body that links the inflammatory process to increased risks for cancer. Since aspirin is an anti-inflammatory agent, it is believed this simple medication can help stave off cancer in many cases. The findings, researchers also say, demonstrate the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. In addition, they show that a regular dose of aspirin may very well help safeguard those without Lynch syndrome from develop colorectal cancers.
People who suffer from Lynch syndrome or other risks for colorectal cancer are urged to discuss screening with their healthcare providers. Colorectal cancer strikes men and women by the thousands each year, but often can be successfully treated if it is caught early. The key is understanding personal risk and undergoing screening when it is recommended.
