The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association (AHA) removed routine low-dose aspirin use for healthy adults over 70 in 2019 due to a higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Despite this, nearly half of U.S. adults incorrectly believe that taking daily low-dose aspirin reduces heart attack or stroke risk more than its risks.
According to a new survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center, nearly 18% of those with no family history of heart disease report regularly taking a daily low-dose aspirin. However, many mistakenly think the benefits outweigh the risks for most adults.
Doctors now recommend low-dose aspirin use only for people diagnosed with cardiovascular disease or at high risk of increased bleeding. Aspirin still helps prevent heart attacks in those who have had cardiovascular issues, but its routine use is not advisable for healthy older adults.
The survey found that younger respondents are more likely to correctly report that the risks outweigh the benefits. The 2022 U.S. Preventative Services Task Force also advised against starting a new regimen of low-dose aspirin use for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in people over 60 without a history of cardiovascular disease or signs/symptoms.
The Annenberg Public Policy Center’s survey panel, which includes over 1,700 U.S. adults, aims to track the American public’s knowledge and behaviors regarding various health issues. The center will continue to monitor Americans’ understanding of aspirin use and its risks, shedding light on a crucial aspect of preventive care.
Source: https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/nearly-half-of-adults-mistakenly-think-benefits-of-daily-aspirin-outweigh-risks