The Zoomer Report: Aspirin and Cancer

There’s more evidence on the benefits of Aspirin. According to two studies, taking aspirin every day may significantly reduce the risk of many cancers and prevent tumors from spreading.

Researchers at Oxford University found that after three years of daily aspirin use, the risk of developing cancer was reduced by almost 25 per cent when compared with a control group not taking aspirin. After five years, daily aspirin reduced the risk of dying of cancer by 37 per cent.

In addition, a different study found that a daily dose reduced the risk of metastatic cancer by 36 per cent and the risk of some common solid cancers including colon, lung and prostate cancer — by 46 per cent.

The findings add to a body of evidence suggesting that cheap and widely available aspirin may be a powerful if overlooked weapon in the battle against cancer. But the research also poses difficult questions as regular doses of aspirin can cause gastrointestinal bleeding and other side effects. Past studies have suggested that the drawbacks of daily use may outweigh the benefits, particularly in healthy patients.

READ MORE ZOOMER REPORTS
The Zoomer Report: Blood Test and Heart Attack
The Zoomer Report: Benefits of Sex
The Zoomer Report: Retail Therapy

About The Zoomer Report
Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.
Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

Are you a Zoomer? Click here to find out.