New medical research has praised ibuprofen, one of the most widely used painkillers globally, after recent studies indicated it may play a role in preventing certain types of cancer, according to The Sun.

Experts emphasized, however, that ibuprofen should not be considered a self-prescribed preventive measure, as more precise research is needed to confirm its long-term safety and effectiveness.

Ibuprofen is typically used to treat headaches, back pain, joint pain, and menstrual cramps, and it belongs to the class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Studies involving over 200,000 participants in the UK found that regular use of ibuprofen could reduce the risk of cancers such as bowel, breast, lung, and prostate cancer.

The drug works by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, which produce prostaglandins — chemicals responsible for inflammation and pain sensitivity.

By reducing these compounds, ibuprofen helps lower chronic inflammation, a known factor in the development of cancerous cells. Researchers noted that specifically inhibiting COX-2 may limit the activity of genes that allow tumors to survive and resist chemotherapy.

Published in the European Medical Journal in 2025, the study found that women who took 30 or more ibuprofen tablets per month had a 25% lower risk of endometrial cancer compared to those who rarely used it.

The positive effects were more pronounced among women with heart disease, suggesting a complex link between chronic inflammation, cancer, and cardiovascular health.

Despite these promising results, doctors warn that excessive or unsupervised use of ibuprofen can lead to stomach ulcers, bleeding, kidney damage, and heart issues.

Individual responses vary depending on genetics and overall health, so ibuprofen cannot yet be considered a reliable preventive treatment — rather, it marks a significant step toward future cancer prevention research.

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