A recent study from Johns Hopkins University reveals that many older Americans are still taking a daily baby aspirin to prevent heart problems, despite updated guidelines advising against it.
The research shows that a significant percentage of adults aged 70 and above continue to use low-dose aspirin, even if they have no history of heart disease.
Let’s dive deeper into the findings.
Background
Aspirin is a commonly used medication that helps reduce the risk of heart disease or stroke. In the past, guidelines recommended low-dose aspirin for individuals at high risk of developing heart disease.
However, recent studies have challenged this approach due to potential risks associated with aspirin use, especially among older adults.
The Study
The researchers analyzed data from over 7,100 U.S. adults aged 60 and above who participated in a federal health survey.
They focused on aspirin use among individuals aged 70 and older and examined the prevalence of its usage among those with and without diabetes.
Findings
The study revealed that approximately 50% to 62% of adults aged 70 and above were using low-dose aspirin as a preventive measure against heart disease or stroke.
Surprisingly, aspirin use was common even among individuals without a history of heart disease, a group for whom the drug may do more harm than good.
The researchers estimated that nearly 10 million Americans falling into this category are using aspirin.
Current Guidelines and Risks
Current guidelines generally discourage routine aspirin use for individuals aged 70 and above to prevent a first-time heart attack or stroke.
This is because aspirin carries risks, including an increased chance of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract or brain, particularly as people age.
Some recent studies have also cast doubt on the efficacy of low-dose aspirin in reducing the risk of first-time heart attacks or strokes.
Clarification on Aspirin Use
While aspirin can benefit individuals with known cardiovascular disease, such as clogged heart arteries or a history of heart attack or stroke, its role in preventing first-time heart problems is less clear.
Previous guidelines recommended low-dose aspirin for those considered at high risk of developing heart disease due to risk factors like smoking, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
However, recent studies have prompted a change in thinking.
Latest Guidelines and Recommendations
According to the latest guidelines from the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association, aspirin can be considered for select patients aged 40 to 70 who are not at an increased risk of bleeding.
However, when it comes to older adults, the guidelines caution against routine aspirin use for primary prevention.
The focus has shifted to statins, medications that lower LDL cholesterol, as an effective strategy for preventing primary heart disease.
Consulting with a Doctor
Many older adults who currently use aspirin started taking it years ago.
The research team encourages these patients to have open discussions with their doctors to determine whether continuing aspirin use is still necessary and beneficial for their specific situation.
Conclusion
The use of daily baby aspirin for preventing heart problems in older Americans is a topic of ongoing research and discussion.
While aspirin may be beneficial for certain individuals with established cardiovascular disease, the risks and benefits of long-term aspirin use for primary prevention need careful consideration.
It is important for older adults to consult with their doctors to determine the best course of action for their heart health.
If you care about aspirin, please read studies about an aspirin a day linked to higher risk of falls, and people with coronary heart disease need this drug instead of aspirin.
For more information about health, please see recent studies about causes of most major cancers, and results showing scientists find new drug to treat both COVID-19 and cancer.
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