How Aspirin and Fiber Prevent Cancer

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How Aspirin and Fiber Prevent Cancer

• By Debbie Meyers

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People with Lower Risk of Cancer

• People who regularly take aspirin and other
  related drugs known as non-sterodial
  anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS.
• People who eat a high fiber diet.

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Colon Cancer Prevention

• Painkillers such as aspirin and ibuprofen may
  help prevent colon cancer by preventing tumor
  cells from becoming immortal.
• Eating fiber works in a similar way.

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Colon Cancer Cells

• Have abnormally high levels of an immune system
  protein called interleukin-6
• Interleukin-6 activates another protein called
  STAT1.
• Cells are programmed to self-destruct when they
  become abnormal, but STAT1 prevents this process
• The cells are now immortal, which results in
  formation of tumors.

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Role of Painkillers such as Aspirin

• Aspirin stops interleukin-6 from activating STAT1.

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Whats the Next Step?

• Find more direct ways to block the STAT1 protein
  in people who already have cancer.

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Aspirin and Breast Cancer

• Women who take aspirin regularly have lower risk
  of breast cancer.

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Breast Cancer Statistic

• Women who took 2 or more painkillers per week for
  5 to 9 years reduced their risk of breast cancer
  by 21.

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Low-dose Aspirin

• Recommended to protect against heart disease

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CNN Interactive

• http//www.cnn.com/