Jakarta, ThedailyID — Aspirin, one of the world’s oldest and cheapest medicines, is drawing fresh attention as scientists explore its potential to help prevent certain cancers from spreading.
New research highlighted this week suggests aspirin may help the immune system attack metastatic cancer cells before they establish new tumours. Researchers say the mechanism appears linked to aspirin’s ability to block thromboxane A2, a platelet-derived molecule that can suppress T-cell activity.
The finding adds momentum to growing research that positions aspirin as a possible adjunct in cancer treatment, particularly in reducing metastasis, which causes most cancer-related deaths.
Scientists at University of Cambridge found aspirin may “unleash” immune cells to target spreading cancer cells. Researchers stressed the discovery remains an evolving area of study, but they said it could open a path toward lower-cost therapies and improved post-treatment protection.
Some evidence has already linked long-term low-dose aspirin use to lower recurrence risk in certain cancers, especially colorectal cancer. Separate studies have also prompted discussion in parts of Europe about how aspirin could fit into preventive care for specific high-risk groups.
Experts, however, warned against self-medicating. Aspirin can increase risks such as internal bleeding and may not benefit everyone. Researchers said patients should only consider aspirin therapy under medical guidance.
Rather than presenting aspirin as a cancer cure, scientists describe it as a potentially powerful tool that may complement surgery, immunotherapy, or existing treatments.
For a drug more than 4,000 years old, researchers say aspirin may still hold untapped potential in modern oncology.
