Risk of cancer in NSAID users
Author Information
Author(s): H T Sørensen, S Friis, B Nørgård, L Mellemkjær, W J Blot, J K McLaughlin, A Ekbom, J A Baron
Primary Institution: Aarhus University and Aalborg Hospital
Hypothesis
What is the risk of cancer among users of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)?
Conclusion
The study found reduced risks of colon and rectal cancers among NSAID users, particularly those with 10 or more prescriptions.
Supporting Evidence
- Users of NSAIDs had a standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of 1.1 for all neoplasms.
- Reduced risks were observed for colon and rectal cancers among those with 10 or more prescriptions.
- Increased risks were noted for prostate and kidney cancers among NSAID users.
- Data suggested a protective effect of NSAIDs against ovarian cancer.
Takeaway
People who take certain pain relievers called NSAIDs might have a lower chance of getting some types of cancer, especially if they take them a lot.
Methodology
The study linked prescription data with cancer registry data to analyze cancer incidence among NSAID users in North Jutland, Denmark.
Potential Biases
Potential confounding by indication and surveillance bias may have influenced the results.
Limitations
The study lacked information on drug use prior to 1989 and could not control for factors like smoking and dietary habits.
Participant Demographics
The cohort included 172,057 individuals, with a mean age of 47.2 years at the start of follow-up.
Statistical Information
P-Value
1.1
Confidence Interval
1.0–1.1
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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