Research Shows Taking Aspirin Daily May Prevent Cancer

Cancer Center expands portfolio with prevention study

(Baton Rouge, La.) Aspirin is a common pain reliever taken by many every day, and new research shows that it may reduce the risk of some cancers. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is participating in a clinical trial “Aspirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly” (ASPREE), which requires participants to take one pill a day, either aspirin or a placebo, for five years. While the Cancer Center offers many national —and in many cases international—treatment clinical trials, ASPREE is the Cancer Center’s first ever cancer prevention study. “Staying on the forefront and offering an expansive menu of cancer clinical trials helps to ensure our community has access to the latest and most advanced lifesaving treatments.  With this preventative research study, we have the opportunity to locally participate in a divergent area of research that could change the face of cancer prevention and education for generations to come,” said Donna Bryant, Cancer Center director of clinical research. While previous research on the effects of aspirin has been conducted in younger groups, this study is the first to test an older population. All individuals age 70 years and older and African- Americans and Hispanics age 65 and older are eligible for this study. People with heart disease, those who have had a heart bypass surgery and significant memory loss are not eligible for this study. Those who have had previous cancers may be screened over the phone to determine eligibility. “There is evidence that aspirin can prevent Alzheimer’s and dementia,” said Bryant. “Not only will this study help determine if aspirin can prevent cancer, but it will also show if taking aspirin daily can prolong life without cognitive decline.” All medications will be provided free of charge, and participants will receive a $25 Walmart gift card at Visit 1 and Visit 2 and at yearly study visits. For more information on joining this free study, please call (225) 215-1353. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is the most comprehensive cancer center in Louisiana offering patients the convenience of receiving high-quality, advanced care close to home. The Cancer Center is part of the National Cancer Institute Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP), a group of competitively selected cancer centers that is developing a national model for community cancer care.