Question 1

Should older adults take aspirin every day to prevent a heart attack?

Accepted Answer

Recent research shows that daily aspirin is no longer recommended for most adults over 60 without heart disease, as the risk of bleeding often outweighs the benefits. Cardiologists now recommend individualized assessment before starting or continuing aspirin.

Question 2

Can aspirin prevent a first heart attack or stroke?

Accepted Answer

Aspirin may slightly reduce the risk of a first heart attack, but in older adults or those at low cardiovascular risk, studies like ARRIVE, ASCEND, and ASPREE show that the benefit is often offset by a higher risk of serious bleeding.

Question 3

What are the risks of taking aspirin every day?

Accepted Answer

The main risks include gastrointestinal bleeding, stomach ulcers, and bleeding in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage). Older adults and those on blood thinners or NSAIDs are especially vulnerable.

Question 4

Who should still consider taking aspirin for heart health?

Accepted Answer

People with existing cardiovascular disease (previous heart attack or stroke) benefit the most. Some high-risk individuals without prior events, such as diabetics with multiple risk factors, may also benefit - but only after careful evaluation by a cardiologist.

Question 5

Can stopping aspirin be harmful for long-term users?

Accepted Answer

For patients already on aspirin, stopping it is usually safe if they have no history of heart attack or stroke, but it should be done under a doctor’s guidance. The decision depends on age, cardiovascular risk, and bleeding history.

Aspirin side effects in elderly

Why Cardiologists Are Reassessing Low Dose Aspirin for Heart Attack Prevention in Older Adults