Prospective cohort study of association of aspirine use and incidence of colorectal cancer according to lifestyle risk

Regular aspirin use reduces the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Identifying individuals more likely to benefit from aspirin use for CRC prevention is a priority. A prospective cohort study among women in the Nurses’ Health Study (n=63,957) and men in the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study (n=43,698) followed up for more than 3 decades found that the absolute reduction in CRC risk was more pronounced among those with an unhealthier lifestyle (higher body mass index, greater amount of smoking, higher alcohol intake, less physical activity, and poorer diet quality) compared with those with a healthier lifestyle. In contrast, the relative reduction in CRC risk associated with aspirin use was similar. The authors conclude that aspirin may be useful for CRC prevention in individuals with additional risk factors.