term use of NSAIDs, but not acetaminophen, raised the risk of death from heart attack or stroke by twofold. Despite the concern over these risks, Sudbo believes that there may still be a role for NSAIDs in preventing oral cancer. "If you want to use these agents on a long-term basis (for any indication), you need to" be monitored carefully for any heart problems. He added that only patients at high risk for cancer, such as smokers, should probably be using these drugs for their cancer preventing effects. Unfortunately, he said his team was unable to identify any factors that could predict which patients are likely to experience heart problems when using NSAIDs. Therefore, everyone who uses them on a long-term basis needs to be watched closely. Sudbo said that his team is now planning a trial to further investigate the anti-oral cancer effect of NSAID use. If all goes well, he expects the study to be completed in 7 years.
