Aspirin to prevent colorectal cancer
Historically, aspirin has been taken to lower risk for getting heart attacks. Now aspirin may be beneficial to prevent colorectal cancer.
The benefits of taking aspirin outweighed the risks in adults aged 50 to 59 who are at high risk. The biggest benefit was noticed in high risk individuals in their 50s. However, the USPSTF recommendation is weaker for high risk adults aged 60 to 69, as the risk of harmful bleeds increases with age.
The guideline for those at high risk of developing colorectal cancer was published recently by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF).
The USPSTF is an independent panel of experts in prevention and primary care appointed by the US Department of health and human services.
Written by: Dr. Ajay Sati.
