ANN ARBOR (WWJ) — It used to be that older adults were all told that an aspirin a day could help keep the doctor away, by preventing a heart attack or stroke, even if they hadn't yet had one.
But that rule has changed, as newer research shows not everyone gets the same benefit. Some people, especially those over the age of 70, could even face a risk of bleeding if they take aspirin regularly.
A new poll from the University of Michigan, however, suggests that many people over the age of 50 haven’t gotten the message about this “more personalized approach” to preventive aspirin use and may be following outdated advice.
The university says guidelines “mostly focus on aspirin use in those who already have cardiovascular disease – including those who have survived a heart attack or stroke – and those who face a high risk of it because of their personal health and family history.”
More than half of all older adults who take aspirin regularly have no history of cardiovascular disease, according to the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging.
“Such people should have a conversation with their health care provider about what’s best for them before stopping or starting aspirin use,” the U of M report says.
The poll shows 42% of people ages 75-80 take aspirin, while 31% of all older adults aged 50 to 80 who take aspirin don’t appear to know about the bleeding risk associated with it.
Doctors say aspirin is still recommended for patients who have had a heart attack or stroke, but they say you should check with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping aspirin use.
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The full report and poll can be found on michiganmedicine.org.
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