Ibuprofen, a common headache and inflammation reliever, can have unexpected effects. New research shows that this popular drug can reduce the risk of certain cancers, including endometrial cancer, which is the most common form of uterine cancer, according to The Conversation.
Scientists attribute this effect to ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits the activity of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme. COX-2 is responsible for inflammation in the body, and chronic inflammation has long been considered a contributing factor to the development of malignancies.
According to the study, conducted as part of the Prostate, Lung, Colon and Ovary (PLCO) project, researchers analyzed data from more than 42,000 women aged 55-74 over a 12-year follow-up. It found that those who took at least 30 ibuprofen pills a month had a 25% lower risk of developing endometrial cancer than those who took less than four. The effect was particularly pronounced in women with cardiovascular disease.
Interestingly, aspirin, another common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, did not show a similar protective effect, although other studies have shown that it reduces the risk of colon cancer recurrence.
Ibuprofen may also have a protective effect against other tumors, such as colon, breast, lung, and prostate tumors. For example, patients with previous bowel cancer who regularly took ibuprofen had a lower risk of recurrence. Laboratory studies show that the drug can slow the growth of tumor cells, making them more sensitive to chemotherapy.
The scientists also note that ibuprofen can affect the activity of genes associated with cancer cell growth and resistance, such as HIF-1α, NFκB and STAT3. By suppressing their activity, the drug makes tumor cells more vulnerable.
However, the researchers emphasize that self-medication is unacceptable. Long-term use of high doses of ibuprofen can cause stomach ulcers, internal bleeding, kidney and heart damage. The drug also interacts with anticoagulants and antidepressants, increasing side effects.
Although this discovery gives hope for new methods of cancer prevention, experts advise not to use ibuprofen as a tumor protector for now. It is much more effective to reduce the risks naturally through a balanced diet, physical activity and weight management.
Translation by Euromedia24.com
