New Delhi: When it comes to cancer, there are many ways of working towards stopping its progression. Cancer diagnosis must also be done on priority as it helps lower the risk of long-term health problems in the future. If left unaddressed, a tumour can spread to other body parts and become metastatic. This raises the risk of long-term health problems and irreversible organ damage as well. But on the bright side, a study says that a common painkiller can work well to slow down the progression of a tumour. It turns out that aspirin can reduce chemical levels in the body that block white blood cells from acting. This can help the immune system stop a tumour.
How does aspirin help reduce cancer risk?
On the one hand, it is advised not to pop painkillers mindlessly. But on the other hand, it is imperative to also note that when cancer starts to spread, it looks for an opportunity when cells are most vulnerable to attack. But when the aspirin effect was noted, it took experts and researchers by surprise, as it is a common OTC medication, which is inexpensive and also easily accessible. Aspirin is not just a painkiller but also an effective blood thinner that can reduce the risk of a heart attack or a stroke.
Experts involved in the study noted that a molecule known as TXA2 can suppress cancer-killing T cells, a white blood cell which prevents blood from clotting. Mice with skin cancer, when given aspirin, had a lower risk of cancer spreading to other body parts. Writing about it in the Nature journal, researchers said that this effect could be because the body’s white blood cells could kill tumour cells circulating in the body. Researchers said that 90% of cancer deaths in humans are because of the tumour spreading. But this does not mean that cancer patients must start popping aspirin pills.
Aspirin for stopping cancer progression must not be considered a go-to technique. This discovery can help limit severe side effects like stomach ulcers or bleeding. But it is also important to note that cancer patients can benefit more after taking the pill.
Aspirin for stopping cancer progression must not be considered a go-to technique. This discovery can help limit severe side effects like stomach ulcers or bleeding. But it is also important to note that cancer patients can benefit more after taking the pill. Medicine Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare