Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered how aspirin may help prevent cancer from spreading. Their study found that aspirin disrupts platelets, allowing the immune system’s T-cells to better detect and destroy cancer cells. This effect appears to be especially important during metastasis, the process in which cancer spreads to new areas of the body.
Scientists believe aspirin could be beneficial for early-stage cancer patients, potentially reducing the risk of recurrence after treatment. While promising, experts warn that patients should not take aspirin without medical advice due to its risks, including internal bleeding. Clinical trials, such as the Add-Aspirin study, are underway to determine its effectiveness.
This unexpected discovery, published in Nature, could also pave the way for new treatments that harness aspirin’s benefits while minimizing side effects. If confirmed in human trials, it may lead to safer, more effective cancer prevention strategies.