Aspirin Lowers Leukemia Risk

Researchers have found yet another benefit of taking aspirin. A new study shows women who take aspirin two or more times a week may lower their risk of leukemia by more than 50 percent.
Investigators analyzed data from more than 28,000 women in the Iowa Women's Health Study to determine whether taking aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, could protect against leukemia.
Results of the study show women who developed leukemia took aspirin less often than women who did not develop leukemia. Results also show that aspirin appears to have a more potent protective effect against adult leukemia than non-aspirin NSAIDs. There was no reduction in leukemia risk associated with NSAIDs other than aspirin, contrary to the researchers' expectations.

Recent studies have shown aspirin reduces the risk of other cancers and cardiovascular diseases, including stroke. Researchers say although aspirin is generally a safe drug, it can have adverse effects for some people. They advise people to check with their doctors before starting an aspirin regimen.

Adult leukemia accounts for nearly 5 percent of all newly diagnosed cancers in the United States.