Does daily aspirin lower cancer risk?
Amy, at 76, asks a common question: can taking aspirin every day help keep cancer at bay? The short answer is: it depends on individual risk factors, and not everyone should take daily aspirin for cancer prevention. In the past decade, research has shown some potential benefits for certain groups, but these come with real risks. It’s important to make a decision in partnership with a clinician who understands your medical history and family cancer risk.
What the research says about aspirin and cancer
Early studies suggested that low-dose aspirin might reduce the risk of several cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, especially with long-term use. More recent trials and reviews have painted a nuanced picture. Benefits may be modest and time-lagged, and they vary by age, sex, existing health conditions, and risk factors like a family history of cancer.
For people who are otherwise healthy, routine daily aspirin is unlikely to provide a meaningful cancer-prevention advantage once the risk of side effects is weighed. The most consistent and proven benefit of daily low-dose aspirin in older adults is a reduced risk of certain cardiovascular events. However, aspirin also raises the risk of bleeding, including stomach and intestinal bleeds and, less commonly, brain bleeds. For some individuals, especially older adults or those with a history of ulcers or gastrointestinal issues, these risks can outweigh any potential cancer benefit.
How your family history and age affect the decision
Having a family history of cancer, like a father with prostate cancer or a mother with breast cancer, understandably heightens concern. But a family history does not automatically justify daily aspirin for cancer prevention. The decision should consider:
- Your personal cancer risk: age, sex, family history, and any existing precancerous conditions.
- Your cardiovascular risk: if you have risk factors for heart attack or stroke, aspirin’s cardiovascular benefits may be more relevant.
- Your bleeding risk: history of ulcers, gastritis, or conditions that predispose to bleeding.
<li current medications and potential drug interactions, including anticoagulants or NSAIDs.
For many seniors, the safest approach is a careful, individualized assessment rather than a blanket daily aspirin plan.
What to discuss with your doctor
To decide whether daily aspirin is appropriate, ask your clinician about:
- Current guidelines for aspirin in primary prevention and how they apply to your age and health status.
- Your 10-year cardiovascular risk and any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding risk.
- Alternative cancer risk reduction strategies (see below) and the potential for screening to catch cancer early.
- Whether lowering the aspirin dose or stopping it temporarily is advisable based on symptoms or procedures.
Never stop or start aspirin without medical guidance, especially at an advanced age or when you have comorbidities.
Practical steps for cancer prevention beyond aspirin
Regardless of whether aspirin is right for you, there are evidence-based actions that can reduce cancer risk and support overall health, including:
- Staying up to date with age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., colon, breast, prostate, skin, and other recommended tests).
- Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and limited processed foods.
- Engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and managing weight.
- Managing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes with their prescribed therapies.
Bottom line
For a 76-year-old with a long history of daily aspirin use, the decision about continuing aspirin for cancer prevention hinges on weighing potential, modest cancer benefits against bleeding risks and cardiovascular factors. A personalized plan developed with your doctor is essential. If you’re considering changes, schedule a discussion to review current guidelines, your medical history, and the best path forward for your health goals.
