This anti-inflammatory may boost immunity against cancer

Previous research has suggested that using aspirin, a common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), may prevent the development and progression of colorectal cancer.

However, the mechanisms behind aspirin’s protective effects have been poorly understood.

The new study, published in the journal CANCER, suggests that the drug may enhance certain aspects of the body’s immune response against cancer cells.

How did the research test the effect of the medicine?

To test the effects of aspirin, researchers in Italy obtained tissue samples from 238 patients who had surgery for colorectal cancer, 12% of whom used aspirin.

Exposing colorectal cancer cells to aspirin in the laboratory increased the expression of a protein called CD80 on certain cells of the immune system.

This improved the cells’ ability to alert other immune cells to the presence of tumor-associated proteins.

In patients with rectal cancer, aspirin users showed higher expression of CD80 in healthy rectal tissue, supporting the cell findings.

“Our study shows a complementary mechanism of cancer prevention or aspirin therapy in addition to its classic drug mechanism that involves inhibition of inflammation,” said lead researcher Marco Scarpa, Ph.D., of the University of Padua.

Scarpa explains that when aspirin is taken orally, its concentration in the rectum can be much lower than in the rest of the colon.

Therefore, it is essential to ensure that aspirin reaches the colorectal tract in adequate doses to be effective.

Aspirin contraindications

In addition to its protective effects against colorectal cancer and polyps, daily aspirin may also reduce the risk of heart attack and clot-related strokes.

However, aspirin may not be a safe choice for pregnant women and people with conditions such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, bleeding disorders, asthma, stomach ulcers, liver disease, and kidney disease.

In 2022, the US Preventive Services Task Force recommended Do not take low-dose aspirin to prevent a first cardiovascular event in people over 60 years of age or more due to bleeding risks.

How to prevent colorectal cancer?

The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age and is higher in people with a family history of the disease.

Prevention involves a comprehensive set of strategies, starting with nutrition.

It’s important to incorporate a diet rich in fiber, fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains. It is also recommended to avoid processed foods and saturated fats.

Furthermore, controlling your weight is essential; Maintaining a healthy weight involves exercising regularly and avoiding excess calories.

Limiting alcohol consumption and eliminating smoking are additional steps. These habits are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer, so reducing or eliminating them is an important preventative measure.

In parallel, it is essential to undergo regular screening tests, such as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy or stool tests, especially from the age of 45, or even earlier if there is a family history of the disease.

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

• Rectal bleeding, often noticed as blood in the stool or on toilet paper after a bowel movement.
• Changes in intestinal pattern, such as diarrhea, constipation or changes in stool consistency.
• Persistent abdominal discomfort, cramping, or unexplained abdominal pain.
• Feeling that the intestine has not been completely emptied after a bowel movement.
• Unexplained weakness or fatigue.
• Unintentional weight loss.
• Feeling that the rectum is blocked or obstructed.
• Unexplained anemia, characterized by a lack of iron in the blood, which can result in fatigue or weakness.

It is important to note, however, that these symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency, and not everyone with colorectal cancer will experience all of these signs.

However, if you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they persist for more than a few weeks, it is essential to seek medical advice.