Effect of aspirin use on cancer incidence and mortality: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives: To evaluate the association between aspirin use and cancer incidence and mortality, and to clarify aspirin's potential role in cancer prevention. Study design: Meta-analysis of observational studies and randomized controlled trials comparing cancer outcomes in aspirin users versus non-users. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library up to April 2024. Studies reporting hazard ratios (HRs) for cancer incidence or mortality in relation to aspirin use were included. Data were extracted and pooled using a random-effects model to account for study heterogeneity, and results were expressed as hazard ratios (HRs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Conclusions: This meta-analysis supports the growing body of evidence suggesting aspirin's potential role in reducing cancer incidence and mortality, particularly for colorectal and liver cancers. Future studies should focus on identifying the optimal dosage and duration of aspirin use and elucidating the mechanisms behind its protective effects to guide clinical recommendations.