A recent study conducted on a group of 19,000 individuals has sparked renewed interest in the effects of aspirin on health. The study, which was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, focused specifically on people aged 65 and older. Half of the participants were given a daily dose of 100 mg aspirin, while the other half received a placebo.
The study revealed that the group taking low-dose aspirin had a 25% higher chance of developing anemia. Anemia occurs when the body lacks sufficient healthy blood cells to effectively carry oxygen throughout the body.
Dr. Kevin Most, Chief Medical Officer at Northwestern Medicine’s Central DuPage Hospital, commented on the study during an interview with WGN Radio. He emphasized the importance of carefully assessing the risks and benefits of aspirin, considering its potential to prevent strokes and heart attacks, as well as its potential to cause anemia. This scrutiny surrounding aspirin introduces the need for ensuring that only the appropriate individuals are prescribed the medication.
Given that aspirin has been associated with a higher risk of bleeding, including stomach bleeding and aneurysms, doctors have already shifted away from recommending daily aspirin for all older adults. Dr. Most encourages patients to discuss this new study with their doctors in order to determine the most suitable course of action regarding daily aspirin consumption.
Dr. Most, who himself takes a daily baby aspirin due to his high risk factors (such as a family history of heart attacks, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure), advises consulting a healthcare professional to weigh the risks against the rewards.
In addition, Dr. Most suggests discussing the possibility of switching to an enteric-coated aspirin with one’s doctor. This type of aspirin is coated to reduce harm to the stomach lining and minimize the risk of stomach bleeding.
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