Southlake, TX – An apple a day might keep the doctor away, but researchers are finding aspirin might hold more promise for better health. Low doses of this common, over-the-counter medication may prevent not only heart attacks, but also some obesity-related cancers. Researchers at Newcastle University and the University of Leeds teamed up for a 10-year study that ultimately concluded that obesity-related risks for the development of certain cancers could be counteracted through the use of regular doses of aspirin.

“The findings are very encouraging for those who have witnessed their cancer risks rise due to obesity,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at Southlake Oncology, a Choice Cancer Center. “Combatting the increased potential for cancer related to weight is a major concern as obesity reaches epidemic proportions in America and in many countries across the globe.”

While the study in question involved 937 people. Part of the group was instructed to take two aspirins daily; the other part took a placebo. At the 10-year mark, 55 people had developed colorectal cancers with those who were obese more than twice as likely to develop it. Participants who took aspirin, however, found their risks were the same whether they were obese or not.

A full understanding of the role aspirin might play in preventing obesity-related cancers is not yet available. At this point, researchers believe the drug’s anti-inflammatory properties help keep cancer at bay. The results of this study and others like it have led to recent recommendation changes from the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force, which now offers low-dose aspirin therapy as a means for preventing cancer in some patients.

“It’s important for people to keep in mind, however, that regular aspirin use may pose its own side effects,” cautions Dr. Echt. “Before incorporating aspirin into the daily routine, seek medical advice. The best method for avoiding obesity-related cancers remains losing weight in a safe and healthy manner.”

About Southlake Oncology
Southlake Oncology,located in the Southlake and Grapevine area is a community-focused oncology practice that delivers exceptional care to North Texas cancer patients with a variety of cancer diagnoses and blood disorders. Like the other Choice Cancer Care facilities, we are an independent treatment center that is physician-owned.