Long-term antibiotic use linked to bowel cancer precursor

A study has suggested that the long-term use of antibiotics increases the risk of developing growths on the bowel, which can be a precursor to cancer, adding evidence to the theory that the diversity of bugs could have a role in the development of tumours.

15-20 per cent of the UK’s population are affected by bowel polyps, or adenomas, which are small growths which appear on the lining of the bowel. In most cases, these are benign and harmless.  However, if left untreated, some do go on to develop into cancerous tumors.

This study, conducted in the US and involving 16,600 nurses taking part in a long-term trial, found that nurses between the ages of 20 and 39 who had taken antibiotics for two months or more, were more likely to be diagnosed with adenomas in later life, compared with those of the same age group who had not taken long-term antibiotics.

Women in their 40s and 50s who had taken antibiotics for the same time scale were even more likely to be diagnosed later in life with an adenoma.

The study authors said “Antibiotics fundamentally alter the gut microbiome, by curbing the diversity and number of bacteria, and reducing the resistance to hostile bugs.

“This might all have a crucial role in the development of bowel cancer, added to which the bugs that require antibiotics may induce inflammation, which is a known risk for the development of bowel cancer.

“The findings if confirmed by other studies, suggest the potential need to limit the use of antibiotics and sources of inflammation that may drive tumour formation.”

Cancer Research UK’s health information officer Dr Jasmine Just, said “This research is at a very early stage so it is too early to draw definitive conclusions.

“People who are prescribed antibiotics by medical professionals should continue taking them and discuss any concerns with their doctor.

“It is not possible to be sure of cause and effect from this paper. We are still one step away from being able to suggest either way whether there is an increased risk.

“But this is very interesting research that builds on other studies looking at how the microbes in the bowel affect our health.”

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Posted by Karen Motley, Paralegal, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (karenmotley@chadlaw.co.uk), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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