Prevalence of Aspirin Use Among Older Adults Without Heart Disease Raises Concerns

A recent study highlights that nearly one in six older adults are taking aspirin as a primary preventative measure against cardiovascular disease, despite updated guidelines advising caution. The research, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, surveyed over 2,500 adults aged 50 to 80 and found that a significant portion of aspirin users began taking the medication without medical consultation. Notably, nearly 25% of these individuals started aspirin therapy without a healthcare provider’s recommendation, and 8% had not discussed their use with any medical professional.

The study emphasizes that the supposed benefits of aspirin for primary prevention might be outweighed by potential risks, particularly bleeding. The authors point out that older adults often believe aspirin significantly lowers their risk of heart attack, and many also think it can reduce dementia risk, perceptions that may not align with current medical evidence.

Medical guidelines, including recommendations from the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, now suggest against routine aspirin use for primary prevention after age 70 or in certain age groups due to the increased risk of bleeding complications. Despite these recommendations, the study reveals a disconnect, with some individuals continuing aspirin therapy based on misconceptions or outdated beliefs.

The study's lead author, Dr. Jordan K.. Schaefer, underscores the importance of consulting healthcare providers before initiating aspirin therapy, especially as the benefit-to-harm ratio varies with age and individual health profiles. The findings highlight the need for improved patient education to ensure older adults make informed decisions about their health, aligning their practices with current evidence-based guidelines.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-older-adults-aspirin-history-heart.html