NSAIDS and the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma

Use of NSAIDS (drugs commonly used for the treatment of arthritis or headache, such as aspirin or ibuprofen) has been shown to lower the risk of colon cancer and the formation of colon polyps. One study has looked at the use of these drugs and the risk of developing upper GI tract tumors, including adenocarcinoma (Barrett's esophagus associated cancer) of the esophagus. The researchers in this study concluded that the use of aspirin or other NSAIDs, at least once a week for six months or more, lowered the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. The risk was lowered even more in patients who were on these medications at the time of the study (current users). Other studies have supported these findings while some have not. There are side-effects with the use of these drugs and most can cause ulcers or bleeding in the esophagus, stomach or intestine. You should always discuss the use of these drugs with your doctor before starting them.