A new study from Johns Hopkins University highlights that many older Americans continue to take daily baby aspirin to prevent heart problems, even though updated guidelines advise against this practice for those without a history of heart disease.
This widespread use of aspirin raises concerns about its risks and benefits, particularly for people over 70.
Aspirin has long been recognized as a medication that can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by preventing blood clots. In the past, it was commonly recommended for individuals at high risk of developing cardiovascular problems.
However, recent studies have questioned this approach, especially for older adults, as the risks associated with aspirin use may outweigh its benefits.
The research team analyzed data from more than 7,100 U.S. adults aged 60 and older who participated in a national health survey. Their focus was on adults aged 70 and above, examining aspirin use among both those with and without diabetes.
The findings revealed that between 50% and 62% of adults aged 70 and older were using low-dose aspirin to prevent heart disease or stroke. What stood out was the frequent use of aspirin by individuals without a history of heart disease—nearly 10 million older Americans fall into this category.
For this group, the benefits of aspirin are unclear, and the risks, such as internal bleeding in the stomach or brain, become more concerning with age.
Current guidelines from the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association discourage routine aspirin use for individuals aged 70 and older who have never experienced heart problems.
Research shows that aspirin may not effectively prevent first-time heart attacks or strokes in this population, and the potential for harmful side effects increases as people age.
However, aspirin remains a valuable treatment for people with known cardiovascular conditions, such as a history of heart attacks, strokes, or blocked arteries. In these cases, the drug’s ability to prevent further complications outweighs the risks.
In the past, low-dose aspirin was often recommended for people at high risk of heart disease due to factors like smoking, high blood pressure, or diabetes. But as evidence about the risks of aspirin has grown, medical experts now recommend a more cautious approach.
The latest guidelines suggest that aspirin can be considered for select patients aged 40 to 70 who have a high risk of heart disease but are not prone to bleeding. For older adults, however, routine aspirin use for primary prevention is no longer advised.
Instead, the focus has shifted to other preventive measures, such as lifestyle changes and medications like statins, which lower LDL cholesterol and have proven effective in reducing the risk of heart disease.
Many older adults currently taking aspirin started doing so years ago, before guidelines changed. Health experts encourage these individuals to discuss their aspirin use with their doctors. A personalized evaluation can help determine whether continuing the medication is still appropriate for their health needs.
This study underscores the importance of balancing the benefits and risks of daily aspirin use, particularly for primary prevention in older adults. While aspirin remains an important tool for managing existing heart disease, its role in preventing first-time heart problems is less certain.
Consulting a healthcare provider is essential to make the best decisions for long-term heart health.
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