Yahoo News is reporting on the results of a new study, published today in the journal, Cancer. Data from the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study was used and the research results showed a link between the use of aspirin on a regular basis an a reduction of deadly melanoma skin cancer cases.
The data, compiled from the statistical analysis of over 60,000 postmenopausal women between the ages of 50 and 79, showed a 21 percent lower risk rate for the development of melanoma in women who took aspiring regularly than those who did not. The length of time taking aspirin had a significant risk lowering effect as well. Those women who reported regular aspiring use for five years or more had a 30 percent lower risk for a melanoma development. Although anyone can develop melanoma, data from Caucasian women was used for this study due to the significantly high rate of melanoma in this demographic.
The conclusion reached is that aspirin may have properties that inhibit the development of melanoma. Aspirin is an NSAID, a non-steroidal-anti-inflammatory drug, but the data concluded that the use of NSAID drugs other than aspirin showed no risk lowering benefit. Researchers say that the next step should be clinical trials to validate their conclusions.
Melanoma is a deadly form of skin cancer and the fastest growing cancer in the country. In 2009, the Melanoma Research Foundation reported close to 63,000 melanoma diagnoses which resulted in over 8,500 deaths. Projections for 2012 data are expected to rise. Melanoma doesn't discriminate. All races and ethnic groups can develop melanoma. Caucasians have the highest development rate, followed by Native Americans and Native Alaskans, Hispanics, Asian/Pacific Islanders and African Americans.
Controlling risk factors is the best way to prevent this and other forms of skin cancer. The use of a 30 SPF or above sunscreen and avoiding direct, unprotected sun exposure for extended periods of time will help. The links will take you to detailed information about skin cancers, along with expert advice for the choosing of a sunscreen product that is right for you.
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