Introduction to Colorectal Cancer and Aspirin
A common over-the-counter medication could significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer coming back. In a Swedish study, a low dose of aspirin was shown to slash recurrence in half for patients with colon and rectal cancer whose tumors had a specific type of genetic mutation.
Methodology of the Study
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital followed more than 3,500 cancer patients from 33 hospitals in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland. All patients had undergone surgery to remove their tumors. Among those who had a particular gene mutation in the PIK3 signaling pathway, half of them received 160 milligrams of aspirin daily and the other half received a placebo.
Results of the Study
After a three-year period, the risk of cancer recurrence was reduced by 55% in those who took the aspirin compared with the placebo group. “The ALASCCA trial shows for the first time in a randomized setting that low-dose aspirin significantly reduces recurrence in colorectal cancer patients with somatic PI3K pathway alterations,” study author Anna Martling, M.D., Ph.D., professor at the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, and senior consultant surgeon at Karolinska University Hospital, told Fox News Digital. A Swedish study found that a low dose of aspirin cut colon and rectal cancer recurrence for patients with a specific genetic mutation. White bear studio – stock.adobe.com
Implications of the Study
The effect was stronger in women, which warrants further investigation, according to Martling. The findings were published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Aspirin is a drug that is readily available globally and extremely inexpensive compared to many modern cancer drugs, Martling noted. Intended to relieve pain, fever, and inflammation, aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Low doses of the medication are also used to prevent blood clots.
Expert Insights
Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, was not involved in the study but shared his reaction in an interview with Fox News Digital. “Aspirin is an anti-inflammatory and is involved with mitigating growth factors,” he said. “Numerous studies have shown that regular use of NSAIDs have decreased the risk of developing and dying from colon cancer.” The PIK3CA mutation in the study leads to rapid cell growth in cancers, found in 55% of breast cancers and about 30% of colon cancers, Siegel noted.
Limitations and Future Directions
The study did have some limitations, the author acknowledged. “As with any trial, there are caveats. The study was not powered for detailed subgroup analyses, and patients older than 80 were not included,” Martling said. “Longer follow-up is also needed to confirm effects on overall survival.” Some common side effects of aspirin include stomach problems and an increased bleeding tendency, according to the researchers. It should not be used by people with stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, or asthma.
Conclusion
Despite the limitations, the researchers believe that the results are “immediately relevant” for clinicians and guideline committees. “Testing for PI3K pathway alterations should be considered in colorectal cancer patients after surgery,” Martling recommended. The trial is a strong example of “precision medicine,” according to the researcher, and of high-technology platforms meeting a well-known, low-cost drug. If broadly implemented, the regimen could prevent thousands of recurrences and save lives each year, especially in settings where access to expensive novel drugs is limited.
FAQs
- Q: What is the significance of the PIK3 signaling pathway in colorectal cancer?
A: The PIK3 signaling pathway is significant because mutations in this pathway can lead to rapid cell growth in cancers, including colorectal cancer. - Q: How does aspirin reduce the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence?
A: Aspirin reduces the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence by mitigating growth factors and acting as an anti-inflammatory. - Q: Who should consider taking aspirin to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence?
A: Patients with colorectal cancer who have a specific genetic mutation in the PIK3 signaling pathway should consider taking aspirin under medical supervision. - Q: What are the potential side effects of taking aspirin for colorectal cancer prevention?
A: Potential side effects include stomach problems and an increased bleeding tendency. - Q: Is aspirin recommended for everyone who has experienced colon cancer?
A: No, aspirin is not recommended for everyone who has experienced colon cancer. Doctors need to analyze the risks and benefits of aspirin use on a case-by-case basis.
