Recent research from Oxford University has suggested that a small daily dose of Asprin can help to prevent cancer and may also help to treat it.

The research indicated that a daily dose of between 75mg and 300mg of Asprin over three years appeared to reduce the number of cancer cases by 25%. At the same time, the risk of dying from cancer fell by 15% for the first five years, and this fell to 37% if the patient continued taking the drug beyond five years.

Previous research had suggested that people would need to take Asprin for 10 years before receiving any benefit.
The research also indicated that the number metastatic cancers were also reduced as a result of taking low amounts of cancers. Metastatic cancers describe cancers where the tumor spreads from one part of the body to another and the research suggested that Asprin had a differing level of success in preventing different cancers from spreading.

Many people already take Asprin to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. However, it can also increase the risk of potentially fatal internal bleeding, particularly within the first few years of taking it.

Experts recommend discussing the risks and gains with a doctor before considering taking a regular dose. They are calling for the government to publish some definitive advice for prescribing the drug.

The Department of Health have indicated that they are looking into the best method of advising the public over the use of Asprin.