Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. In 2020, it is estimated that there will be 191,930 new cases of prostate cancer in the United States alone, with 33,330 deaths.

The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in men over 50 years old. While the exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, there are various risk factors, such as genetics, lifestyle factors, and inflammation.

Recently, studies have shown that aspirin, a commonly used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), may have a role in reducing the risk of prostate cancer mortality.

Aspirin and Prostate Cancer

Several studies have investigated the relationship between aspirin use and prostate cancer incidence and mortality.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that regular aspirin use was associated with a 24% reduction in the risk of prostate cancer mortality in men with nonmetastatic prostate cancer. Similarly, another study published in the Journal of Urology reported that aspirin use was associated with a 39% lower risk of prostate cancer-specific mortality in men with high-risk prostate cancer.

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism by which aspirin may reduce the risk of prostate cancer mortality is not fully understood.

However, it is thought that aspirin may inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells, as well as reduce inflammation. Inflammation plays a significant role in the development of prostate cancer, and several studies have shown that chronic inflammation of the prostate gland is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.

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Benefits of Aspirin Use in Prostate Cancer Patients

Aside from reducing the risk of prostate cancer mortality, aspirin use may also have other benefits in prostate cancer patients.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that regular aspirin use was associated with a 57% lower risk of distant metastases and a 67% lower risk of prostate cancer-specific mortality in men with high-risk prostate cancer. Another study published in the British Journal of Cancer reported that regular aspirin use was associated with a 31% lower risk of prostate cancer recurrence in men with localized prostate cancer.

Risks of Aspirin Use

While aspirin use may have benefits in reducing the risk of prostate cancer mortality, it is not without risks. The most common side effect of aspirin use is gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be serious and even life-threatening.

As such, aspirin use should be carefully considered and discussed with a healthcare provider, especially in individuals with a history of bleeding disorders, ulcers, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Additionally, aspirin use may increase the risk of other conditions, such as stroke and heart attack, in some individuals.

Conclusion

A growing body of evidence suggests that aspirin use may have a role in reducing the risk of prostate cancer mortality. Aspirin may also have other benefits in prostate cancer patients, such as reducing the risk of recurrence and distant metastases.

However, aspirin use is not without risks and should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Further studies are needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of aspirin use in prostate cancer patients.