Most people keep a pack of painkillers at home, using them without much thought when discomfort appears.
It is routine and familiar. But new research suggests that one of these everyday tablets may play a much bigger role than expected.
According to reporting by the BBC and studies from Newcastle University, Karolinska Institute and the University of Oxford, scientists are now uncovering how aspirin may help reduce the risk of certain cancers in specific groups.
A pattern emerges
The first clues appeared when patients taking aspirin for heart conditions seemed less likely to develop cancer. This observation sparked further investigation.
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Clinical trials involving high-risk groups, including people with Lynch syndrome, show that long-term use of aspirin can significantly lower the risk of colorectal cancer.
In Sweden, results from a large 2025 study have already influenced how some patients are treated.
What happens in the body
Researchers are still working to fully understand the mechanisms, but several biological processes appear to be involved.
Aspirin may reduce inflammation linked to tumour growth while also affecting how cancer spreads in the body.
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There is also growing evidence that it helps the immune system detect abnormal cells more effectively.
Key mechanisms include:
- Reduced inflammation associated with tumour development
- Lower platelet activity linked to cancer spread
- Improved immune response to abnormal cells
Not for everyone
Despite promising findings, experts warn against unsupervised use. Aspirin can cause side effects such as internal bleeding.
The benefits appear strongest in people with higher risk, and ongoing studies are exploring its wider potential.
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For now, doctors stress that any preventative use should be discussed with a healthcare professional.