Corresponding Author: Dr. Lubna Fathima, MDS, Senior Lecturer, Department of Public Health Dentistry, SRM Dental College, Ramapuram, Bharathi Salai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Contact Number: +91 8072019608, Email: researchphdsrm@gmail.com
Background: Aspirin is widely studied for its anticancer effects, such as immune response regulation, reduced platelet activation, and cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition. However, concerns remain about its potential to promote cancer in certain scenarios and the risk of serious bleeding events.
Aim and Objective: This systematic review aims to analyze long-term aspirin effects on cancer incidence, progression, mortality, and associated hazards, including bleeding and potential tumor growth in the elderly.
Materials and Methods: The association between aspirin usage, adverse events, and cancer outcomes was established by analyzing data from significant randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and mechanistic investigations, such as the Lancet, CAPP2, ASPREE, and Women's Health Study trials.
Result: Long-term aspirin usage had a moderate protective effect against ovarian cancer and considerably decreased the incidence and death of colorectal cancer. According to mechanistic research, aspirin may stop metastases by boosting T-cell-mediated immunity and blocking platelet-derived thromboxane A₂ (TXA₂). Findings in older groups, however, is variable; some research suggested no mortality benefit and even a potential rise in late-stage cancer deaths. Significant bleeding in the brain and gastrointestinal tract continued to be significant side effects, especially in older patients.
Conclusion: Aspirin has encouraging long-term chemo preventive benefits, particularly in ovarian and colorectal malignancies. However, the substantial bleeding hazards and unknown consequences in elderly persons outweigh its advantages. Before routinely prescribing aspirin usage for cancer prevention, a thorough risk-benefit analysis and customized dose regimens are necessary.
Keywords: Aspirin, cancer prevention, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, platelet inhibition, cancer promotion, chemoprevention.
How to cite this article: Meera SS, Fathima L, Muthulakshmi S, Prabu D, Sindhu R, Rajmohan M, Dhamodhar D. Aspirin's dual role in cancer: a systematic review of the current evidence. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(7s): 190-198; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.7s.22
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None