Effects of NSAIDs on Breast Cancer Risk
Author Information
Author(s): Sharpe C R, Collet J-P, McNutt M, Belzile E, Boivin J-F, Hanley J A
Primary Institution: Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Community Studies, Sir Mortimer B Davis–Jewish General Hospital
Hypothesis
Does the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) affect the risk and stage of breast cancer?
Conclusion
The study found that increased NSAID exposure may reduce the risk of developing larger tumors and distant metastasis in breast cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- The study included 5882 cases and 23,517 controls.
- Increased NSAID exposure 2–5 years before diagnosis was linked to a decreasing risk ratio.
- For the highest NSAID exposure level, the risk ratio was 0.76.
- NSAID use was associated with reduced risks of large tumors and distant metastasis.
Takeaway
Taking certain pain relievers might help lower the chances of getting bigger breast tumors or cancer spreading to other parts of the body.
Methodology
A nested case-control study was conducted using data from the Saskatchewan Prescription Drug Plan, comparing NSAID use among breast cancer cases and matched controls.
Participant Demographics
Female beneficiaries of the Saskatchewan Prescription Drug Plan, aged 18 and older, with no history of cancer since 1970.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.003
Confidence Interval
0.63–0.92
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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