Does aspirin help survival rates in colorectal cancer?

This study investigated the association between the use of aspirin after the diagnosis for colorectal cancer (CRC) and CRC-specific survival and overall survival. Researchers suggested that the use of aspirin after diagnosis is associated with a positive outcome.

Aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs have been described as being associated with a decreased mortality when used before diagnosis. However, the long-term use of aspirin may induce gastric and cerebral hemorrhages (bleeding). The effect of the use of aspirin after the diagnosis of CRC is not clear.

This study included information on 23,162 patients diagnosed with CRC. 6,102 (26.3%) of these patients started using aspirin 30 days after diagnosis. The average follow-up period was 3 years. CRC specific survival and overall survival were determined.

Of the patients who started aspirin use after diagnosis, 2,071 (32.9%) died. 1,158 (19%) of the deaths were CRC-related. Of the 17,060 non-aspirin patients, 7,218 (42.3%) died. 5,375 (31.5%) of the deaths were due to CRC. Aspirin use after the diagnosis was associated with 15% decrease in the risk of CRC-related death and 5% decrease in the risk of death due to any cause.

This study determined that the use of aspirin after CRC diagnosis is associated with improved survival.

It is important to discuss any use of aspirin with your doctor before starting. This treatment can increase bleeding risk.