Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is a medication commonly used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation.

While its use is widespread, recent research has uncovered some surprising benefits of aspirin, particularly when it comes to lung health.

Aspirin and Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, accounting for more deaths than breast, colon, and prostate cancer combined.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent lung cancer, research shows that aspirin may lower the risk of developing the disease.

A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that regular aspirin use was associated with a 32% reduced risk of lung cancer in women.

Another study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that aspirin use was associated with improved outcomes in patients with non-small cell lung cancer, the most common type of lung cancer.

Aspirin and Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure for asthma, research has shown that aspirin may help improve symptoms and reduce the risk of asthma attacks.

A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that regular aspirin use was associated with improved lung function in patients with asthma.

Another study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that aspirin use was associated with a reduced risk of asthma attacks in patients with both asthma and nasal polyps.

Aspirin and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a group of lung diseases that include emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and refractory (non-reversible) asthma.

While there is no cure for COPD, research has shown that aspirin may help improve lung function and reduce the risk of exacerbations (flare-ups).

A study published in the journal CHEST found that regular aspirin use was associated with improved lung function in patients with COPD.

Another study published in the International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease found that aspirin use was associated with a reduced risk of exacerbations in patients with COPD.

Aspirin and Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a serious respiratory infection that can be life-threatening, especially in older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

While there are several risk factors for pneumonia, recent research has shown that aspirin may help reduce the risk of developing the infection.

A study published in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases found that regular aspirin use was associated with a reduced risk of developing community-acquired pneumonia.

Another study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that aspirin use was associated with a reduced risk of mortality in patients with pneumonia.

Aspirin and COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new attention to the potential benefits of aspirin.

While there is still much to learn about the virus, recent research has suggested that aspirin may help reduce the risk of severe illness and death in patients with COVID-19.

A study published in the journal Anesthesia and Analgesia found that aspirin use was associated with a reduced risk of mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit admission, and death in patients with COVID-19.

Another study published in the Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that aspirin use was associated with improved outcomes in patients with COVID-19.

Conclusion

While there is still much to learn about the potential benefits of aspirin for lung health, the research so far is promising.

Regular aspirin use may help reduce the risk of lung cancer, improve lung function in patients with asthma and COPD, reduce the risk of pneumonia, and even improve outcomes in patients with COVID-19. As with any medication, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting aspirin or any other new treatment.