Aspirin affects many physiological processes through its anti-inflammatory actions. Various cancers, including prostate cancer, appear to utilize inflammatory signals to facilitate their growth and progression. We hypothesize that oral aspirin acts directly on prostate epithelial cells to alter COX-2-related metabolism and inhibit prostate cell growth.
Prostate cancer is the most common non-cutaneous malignancy in men and is the second leading cause of cancer death among U.S. men. 221,000 new cases and 29,000 deaths are expected in 2003. The incidence of prostate cancer diagnosis is increasing at 3% per year. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) screening has resulted in improvements in early diagnosis of prostate cancer. However, available treatments all may have a significant negative effect on quality of life. Studies have implicated a beneficial association between ASA use and a lower risk of other types of malignancies, including stomach, esophageal, breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. There is significant evidence to suggest that aspirin has a protective effect against prostate cancer.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Enrollment
60
VA Puget Sound Health Care Service
Seattle, Washington, United States
Assess the effect of oral aspirin on in vivo prostate epithelial cells.
Time frame: 6 months
Changes in COX-2 and COX-2 related gene expression in prostate biopsy tissue before and after the intervention; effects of the intervention on measures of apoptosis and cell cycle; effects of the intervention on global prostate gene expression.
Time frame: 6 months
To measure changes in COX-2 and COX-2 related gene expression in prostate biopsy tissue before and after a 6 month intervention with enteric coated aspirin (325mg/day).
Time frame: 6 months
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