And they follow just months after two other studies reached the same conclusions, suggesting that there is now a growing bulk of evidence that taking low doses of painkillers on a regular basis – perhaps in a daily pill – could fight certain forms of cancer.

The latest study looked at the effects of a type of painkiller called Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS), which includes ibuprofen.

When the body is under attack it produces two enzymes called Cox 1 and 2 which trigger swelling and can cause the pain associated with injury.

But there is mounting evidence that these two enzymes may fuel the growth of cancer cells, help them to multiply and even help the growth of the blood vessels that feed tumours.

Therefore, using simple drugs that can block their action could also help the body to fight off cancer itself.

Previous studies looking at whether NSAIDs can protect against breast cancer have shown conflicting results.

But more recently two large studies have suggested they are useful.

The new review, published in the US Journal of the National Cancer Institute, concludes that most evidence now suggests that women who take these drugs have a lower risk of the disease.

Dr Mahyar Etminan, from the University of British Columbia in Canada, who led the research, said: “The results are encouraging and may help us better understand the importance of the role of inflammation in the pathology of the disease.”

However, the report adds that further trials will be needed before women start taking these drugs every day.

More than 44,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year and the figures are rising. This is mainly because women are having children later in life, breastfeeding less and have less healthy lifestyles. However, survival rates are high.

Aspirin is known to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack and some studies suggest it can slash the risk of certain cancers. But long-term use or a high dose can cause internal bleeding so patients should speak to their GP.