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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin can reduce the risk of breast cancer by about 20%, according to a new report.
Experts analysed 21 studies published over the last 27 years, which involved more than 37,000 women, and found that there was an overall decreased risk for women taking NSAIDs.
The scientists, whose findings are published in the International Journal of Clinical Practice, also found that NSAIDs could potentially play a role in treating women who have already been diagnosed with breast cancer.
However, they stressed that more studies must to be carried out on the ideal type of drug, dose and duration before women should be encouraged to take the medications as a matter of course.
Ian Fentiman, professor of oncology at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, carried out the study.
He said: “Our review suggests that, in addition to possible prevention, there may also be a role for NSAIDs in the treatment of women with established breast cancer.
“NSAID use could be combined with hormone therapy or used to relieve symptoms in the commonest cause of cancer-related deaths in women.”
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International Journal of Clinical Practice
