Does Aspirin Prevent Colon Polyps?

Colon polyps are quite common, particularly in people over the age of fifty. Although most polyps are benign and won’t cause health problems, a small number will undergo a malignant change leading to colon cancer. The rationale behind getting a screening colonoscopy after age fifty is so that pre-cancerous polyps can be identified and removed before they have a chance to become a cancer. Because a small number of colon polyps have the potential to become malignant, prevention of these polyps is important. A recent study looked at the role of aspirin in preventing colon polyps. Is it effective?

What Do Studies Show?

Four different research studies were analyzed where participants who had previously had colon polyps removed were given aspirin. In some studies, they were given low dose aspirin (81 mg) each day and in others full-strength aspirin. (325 mg)  Researchers found that taking a daily aspirin pill appeared to lower the risk of polyp recurrence, although one study showed that low dose aspirin offered greater protection than full-strength aspirin. It appeared from these studies that taking aspirin at least four days a week can help to prevent colon polyps from recurring.

From this analysis, aspirin does appear to prevent colon polyps. In addition, daily low dose aspirin has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Because of these benefits, it might seem that taking an aspirin each day is a cheap insurance policy against colon polyps and heart attacks. While there may be some truth to this, aspirin use is not without its risks. One of the greatest drawbacks of taking aspirin to prevent colon polyps is the risk of irritation of the stomach lining which could lead to a life threatening gastrointestinal bleed. Some people are also allergic to aspirin.

Should You Take a Daily Aspirin to Prevent Colon Polyps?

Because of the risks associated with long-term aspirin use, taking a daily aspirin is generally not recommended to prevent colon polyps unless there’s a strong family history of colon cancer. Aspirin might also be recommended for a person at high risk of heart disease or heart attack.  

The Bottom Line?

If you have a strong family history of colon cancer or pre-cancerous colon polyps, talk to your doctor about taking a daily aspirin. This may be beneficial as long as there’s no history of peptic ulcer, gastrointestinal problems, or allergy to aspirin. If you’re not at a good candidate for aspirin therapy, the best way to prevent colon polyps is to eat a high fiber diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Some studies have also shown that staying physically active helps. Leading a healthy lifestyle and getting regular screening colonoscopies as recommended by your doctor can help to keep your colon healthy and free of pre-cancerous polyps.