Regular use of aspirin linked to increased risk of blood disorder, according to study
A new study suggests that regular use of low-dose aspirin may increase the risk of anemia by 20% in older individuals.
Low-dose aspirin is commonly prescribed to prevent heart attacks and strokes in high-risk individuals by reducing blood clot formation.
However, a study involving 19,114 individuals over the age of 65 found a higher incidence of anemia in those taking low-dose aspirin compared to those taking placebo pills.
Over a five-year period, the likelihood of developing anemia was 23.5% for those taking low-dose aspirin, compared to 20.3% for those not taking aspirin.
Aspirin is a common pain-killing drug that is often also used for prevention of heart attacks due to its anti-clotting properties. But people without a history of heart issues should not take it as a preventative measure, as it can greatly increase one’s risk of severe bleeding and possibly anemia
Even after accounting for other factors that could contribute to anemia, individuals taking low-dose aspirin still had a 20% higher risk. The study authors recommend close monitoring of individuals on low-dose aspirin to ensure early detection of anemia.
According to the researchers from Monash University in Australia, “This provides further reasons to restrict the use of low-dose aspirin to those with an evidence-based indication and to monitor for development of iron-deficiency anemia in persons taking regular aspirin.”
Anemia in elderly individuals can lead to increased fatigue, cognitive impairments, and difficulties in performing daily tasks.
The study, published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine, analyzed data from a study involving older individuals in the US and Australia who were assigned to either a daily low-dose aspirin or a placebo treatment.
While there was no significant difference in major bleeding events between the two groups, the authors speculate that individuals on low-dose aspirin may have experienced less severe internal bleeding, leading to iron deficiency and subsequent anemia.
Aspirin reduces platelet aggregation and weakens the protective barrier of the gut wall, increasing the likelihood of bleeding.
The study also found that individuals taking aspirin had a greater decline in their blood iron levels compared to those taking placebo pills, supporting the theory of aspirin-induced anemia. Anemia affects approximately 30% of individuals over 75 worldwide.
Multiple recent studies have highlighted the bleeding risks associated with low-dose aspirin. Consequently, experts recommend that individuals only take low-dose aspirin for heart attack prevention if advised by their healthcare professional to avoid potential harm.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
