Can aspirin reduce cancer in people with PSC and IBD?

Researchers at Imperial College London are looking for people with both PSC and IBD (Crohn's or Colitis) to take part in a study to investigate if low-dose aspirin is safe and effective in reducing cancer and increasing survival.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) is an autoimmune disease affecting the bile ducts and liver. Most people with PSC also have Crohn's or Colitis. We know that some people with PSC go on to develop liver failure and so need a transplant, and some people with both PSC and Crohn's or Colitis have an increased risk of cancer of either the liver, bile ducts, gallbladder or bowel. Although they have a yearly colonoscopy (to look for signs of bowel cancer) detecting other cancers is currently more challenging. There is therefore a need to find medications that can effectively reduce and manage the risk of cancer and associated complications in people with PSC and Crohn's or Colitis.

Aspirin is a common drug used to treat pain and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Recent clinical trials and research suggest that taking aspirin regularly may reduce the risk of developing some cancers in the general population. This UK-wide study will be the first to see if low dose aspirin is safe and effective in reducing the risk of cancer, as well as the need for liver transplantation, and in increasing overall survival, in people with both Crohn's or Colitis and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC).

Participants on this trial will be randomly assigned to take 75mg of aspirin or a placebo (in a 2:1 ratio) for five years. At the end of the study, the aspirin and placebo-taking groups will be compared to see if there are significant differences in cancer risks, liver disease, the need for liver transplantation, side effects/safety and overall survival.

This study is funded by Cancer Research UK.

By entering your details, you are not committing to take part, but you will be automatically redirected to the study page. You will have the opportunity to change your mind at any time.

This research study is NOT organised by Crohn's & Colitis UK and, therefore, we cannot take responsibility for your involvement in the research.

Opportunity posted 07 March 2024

Want to get involved in research?

The best quality research happens when people with Crohn's and Colitis are involved, and you can make a difference at every stage of research.

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