Aspirin Use, Compliance, and Knowledge of Anticancer Effect in the Community

Millions of adults worldwide use low-dose aspirin for secondary prevention of heart disease. Results of randomized trials indicate that regular use of low-dose aspirin may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by more than 20%, leading to speculation of its chemoprevention role for high-risk groups. Little is known, however, about the use of aspirin in our community.

To determine aspirin use and therapy compliance (never or rarely missing a dose) and to assess whether patients in our community are aware of its anticancer effect.

Observational study. Prospective data were collected during a 1-year period from patients in our general surgical clinic regarding aspirin use, comorbidities, adverse effects, and awareness of anticancer effect. Statistical analysis was performed.

Among aspirin users (n = 137), the mean age was 65.8 years. Most (76.6%) received an 81-mg daily dose of aspirin. Compliance was 25.6% and was significantly associated with diabetes mellitus (p = 0.0028). Only 9.5% were aware of the medication's anticancer effect. Among nonusers (n = 383), the mean age was 53.3 years, a significant difference vs that of aspirin users (p < 0.001). Only 4.7% of nonusers knew of the anticancer effect. Nonusers were more likely to be women (p = 0.0005), younger than age 40 years (p < 0.0001), and have comorbidities or polypharmacy (p = 0.002). No significant difference was found between groups in anticoagulants use, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use, and smoking.

Knowledge of aspirin's anticancer effect is low. More research is required to understand why aspirin compliance is also low.