The study followed 88,378 women for 18 years. The women were enrolled in the landmark Nurses Health Study. Results revealed that those who took 14 or more aspirins a week were 86% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer than subjects who did not take aspirin. Those who took between 6 and 13 aspirins a week were at 41% increased risk and those who took 1 to 3 aspirins a week were had an 11% elevated risk of the disease. American Association for Cancer Research - October 28, 2003.

I think it's important to keep in mind that abruptly stopping any drug therapy can be dangerous. You should know that a new study presented in October at the 69th annual assembly of the American College of Chest Physicians in Orlando, Florida, found that previously stable coronary patients who were taking daily aspirin experienced dangerous heart problems within one week of aspirin withdrawal. Therefore stopping any medication should be discussed with your doctor. American College of Chest Physicians - October 30, 2003.

However, in light of the dangers of daily aspirin, many individuals have chosen to discontinue daily aspirin therapy. Research indicates that daily vitamin E may be as effective as aspirin, without the side effects. Omega III fatty acids added to the diet in larger doses have also been shown to be very beneficial. These, more natural therapies, are certainly a great way to go. Talk to your doctor about natural disease prevention. Don't wait for disease to take hold before you take action.

In 2002, The Journal of the American Medical Association stated that diets using non-hydrogenated unsaturated fats as the predominant form of dietary fat, whole grains as the main form of carbohydrates, an abundance of fruits and vegetables, and adequate omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) will offer significant protection against heart disease. They state that such diets, together with regular physical activity, avoidance of smoking, and maintenance of a healthy body weight, may prevent the majority of cardiovascular disease in Western populations. JAMA. 2002;288:2569-2578 That might be something to think about!