The mystery has been solved.
A recent study has uncovered a potential explanation for how long-term aspirin use may help prevent colon cancer, shedding light on previously unclear aspects of its mechanism. Published in the journal Cancer on April 22, the research indicates that aspirin may enhance the body’s immune response against cancer cells, contributing to its protective effects.
Dr. Marco Scarpa, the lead researcher from the University of Padova in Italy, emphasized that aspirin’s role in cancer prevention or treatment extends beyond its known anti-inflammatory properties. The study examined tissue samples from 238 patients who underwent colon cancer surgery between 2015 and 2019, with about 12% of them being regular aspirin users.
Notably, tissue samples from aspirin users showed lower rates of cancer spread to lymph nodes and increased activity of immune cells against tumors. Laboratory experiments revealed that aspirin exposure boosted the ability of immune cells to detect and respond to cancer cells by increasing the production of a protein called CD80.
In addition, rectal cancer patients who used aspirin displayed higher CD80 levels in healthy tissue, suggesting that aspirin might enhance the immune system’s ability to identify and combat cancer cells even in nearby healthy tissue.
Looking forward, Scarpa emphasized the need to improve aspirin delivery to the colon to maximize its anti-cancer effects. Since aspirin is primarily absorbed in the colon through passive diffusion, Scarpa suggested exploring methods to ensure sufficient dosing for optimal effectiveness against colorectal cancer.
These findings provide valuable insights into the complex mechanisms underlying aspirin’s potential in preventing and treating colon cancer, paving the way for future research aimed at enhancing its therapeutic benefits.
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