Protein’s a Clue on Colon Cancer Prevention

New research gives a hint about who might be most likely to prevent colorectal cancer by taking common medicines. Previous research has found a lower risk of these cancers in people who take aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. These are common over-the-counter drugs. They relieve pain and fight fever and inflammation. But they do have side effects. Researchers want to know who might benefit most by taking them to prevent cancer. The new study looked at blood tests for women in a long-term health study. After tests were done, 280 women developed colorectal cancer. Their tests were compared with 560 women who did not develop cancer. Women who did develop cancer had higher blood levels of a protein called soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor-2 (sTNFR-2). This protein shows up when there’s inflammation in the body.