A low dose aspirin taken daily may help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer, but it's not recommended for everyone, warn doctors.
For some, the aspirin therapy has been observed to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by 40% as well as help reduce the risk of polyps, which can lead to colorectal cancer.
Aspirin may help prevent colorectal cancer by:
• Reducing the production of prostaglandins, which can promote cancer
• Blocking signaling pathways that cause cells to grow out of control
• Influencing the immune response against cancer cells
• Blocking the development of blood vessels that supply nutrients to cancer cells
Other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen sodium (Aleve), may also help reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
However, not all people can safely take aspirin due to potential side effects.
In fact, the benefits of aspirin don't outweigh the risks for everyone. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends low-dose aspirin for people who have a 10% or greater 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease. In all cases, it is best not to take aspirin unless approved by your physician.

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• Complementary Therapies