Does this mean that aspirin helps some age groups with cancer but not others? The short answer is: Possibly. Less cancer spread to lymph nodes Higher tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (cells that help fight cancer) Increased CD80 protein in colorectal cells Increased CD80 protein in healthy tissue surrounding the cancer Since the ages are similar, the conclusions seem to somewhat contradict each other. However, the focuses differed, with the ACS study examining the earlier stages of cancer and the ASPREE trial looking at the later stages.
Dr. Scarpa explained that the ACS study investigated local surveillance mechanisms, so the participants were mostly in the early and locally advanced cancer stages. In contrast, the ASPREE trial investigated the effects of aspirin on overall survival.
At this point, researchers are not certain of the underlying factors of why aspirin might accelerate cancer progression in the elderly, but they speculate they may stem from age-related changes in immunity. “Maybe aspirin does have a different effect on people as they age,” said ASPREE trial coauthor Dr. Leslie Ford in a National Cancer Institute press release.
“And, similar to what we’ve seen with COVID-19, does it affect the immune system differently in an older population than it does in a younger, healthier one with a stronger immune system? It’s definitely a plausible explanation.” The ASPREE trial casts doubt on the cancer prevention effects of aspirin, at least in older adults, .
