Colon Cancer Survival

Taking a low dose of a daily aspirin can lower the risk of death from colorectal cancer significantly, according to a new study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). The study investigated aspirin use among patients with Stage I colorectal cancer, and found they reduced their risk of cancer death by 29 percent. Aspirin use also lowered risk of dying from any condition -- not just cancer -- by 21 percent. The researchers then looked at people with Stage II and Stage III tumors and saw a similar effect.

Here's the thing: Aspirin use is not without its own risks. Aspirin irritates the lining of the stomach, so some people experience indigestion, cramps, or nausea after taking it. It's known to cause stomach bleeding or ulcers, and because it thins the blood can also cause bleeding problems. More rarely, regular use of high doses of aspirin can cause liver or kidney damage.