Long-term and frequent use of aspirin is associated with significantly decreased risk of cervical cancer, according to a study led by researchers at Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI).
Aspirin use was associated with a 47% reduced risk of cervical cancer among frequent users – those who used aspirin seven or more times a week, regardless of duration – and 41% reduced risk among long-term frequent users – those with five or more years of frequent use. Acetaminophen use was not associated with decreased risk of cervical cancer.
A research team led by Dr Kirsten Moysich, professor of oncology in the department of cancer prevention and control at Roswell Park, reported the results from the first US-based study to examine the association between regular use of aspirin or acetaminophen.
"Aspirin use remains an attractive cancer-prevention option, due to the fact that most people will be more likely to take a pill rather than make major lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet and engaging in physical activity. However, people need to talk to their doctor before starting an aspirin regimen," says Moysich.
The study examined 328 patients with cervical cancer and 1,312 controls, matched on age and decade, who enrolled in a hospital-based case-control study drawn from 26,831 patients who received treatment at Roswell Park Cancer Institute and completed the Patient Epidemiology Data System questionnaire between 1982 and 1998. Participants provided self-reported information on the frequency and duration of aspirin and/or acetaminophen use.
"Further research is needed," adds Moysich, "on the role of daily, long-term use of aspirin and acetaminophen as both cervical cancer chemo-preventive agents and enhancement to standard treatment strategies post-diagnosis."
[link url="https://www.roswellpark.org/media/news/frequent-aspirin-use-reduces-risk-cervical-cancer-nearly-half"]Roswell Park Cancer Institute material[/link]
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