Aspirin May Guard Against Many Cancers

Aspirin and other commonly used painkillers may help guard against skin cancer, according to a new study published in the journal CANCER. Previous studies have already suggested that NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, and other prescription and over the counter drugs, can reduce people's risk of developing some cancers. For example, earlier this year, three studies in The Lancet bolstered the evidence that a daily low dose of aspirin may protect people in middle age against cancer, particularly those at higher risk. And in another recent study in the British Journal of Cancer, researchers reported that colon cancer patients who take aspirin regularly shortly after diagnosis tend to live for longer.