Aspirin may hamper prostate cancer detection
September 8th, 2008 Posted in prostate cancer diagnosisRegular use of nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen is likely to hamper the detection of prostate cancer.
Researchers suspect that inflammation associated with prostate cancer may occur through a variety of mechanisms such as infection, hormonal changes, physical trauma, urine reflux, and dietary habits.
Studies have shown that cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are inhibited by NSAIDs, play an important role in inflammation. In addition, several reviews have indicated that NSAID use is associated with a lower incidence of prostate cancer.
Investigators said their study suggests that regular NSAID consumption may reduce serum PSA levels, as individuals who used NSAIDs regularly had PSA levels that were approximately 10 percent lower compared to men who did not take these drugs. What impact this may have on the development of prostate cancer, irrespective of PSA, is unclear.
These findings will appear in the October edition of CANCER, a journal of the American Cancer Society.
Tags: aspirin, ibuprofen, prostate cancer