Experts Warn: Aspirin May Do More Harm Than Good for Many Seniors
A new study reveals that nearly one in six older adults in the United States take aspirin as a primary method of preventing cardiovascular disease — even though updated guidelines no longer recommend the practice for many people without a history of heart issues.
According to research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, around 24% of aspirin users aged 50 to 80 began taking the medication without any physician recommendation, and 8%had never discussed their aspirin use with a healthcare provider.
The study draws on data from over 2,500 respondents surveyed through the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging. While aspirin was once widely recommended for heart disease prevention, newer research has shown that for many older adults without a history of cardiovascular events, the risk of serious bleeding may outweigh the benefits.
“For some patients without a history of cardiovascular disease, the benefits of taking aspirin for primary prevention may be offset by an increased risk of bleeding, especially as patients get older,” said Dr. Jordan K. Schaefer, senior author and clinical associate professor at the University of Michigan Medical School.“It is even more concerning when patients are taking aspirin without consulting their physician.”
In response to these concerns, major medical organizations have revised their guidance:
• The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) advise against routine aspirin use for primary prevention in adults over 70.
• The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends not starting aspirin for primary prevention after age 60, and suggests it may be appropriate to stop around age 75.Despite these changes, the poll found that many older adults still perceive aspirin as broadly beneficial:
80% said aspirin helps with general health.
68% recognized its bleeding risk.
29% believed it reduces the risk of dementia.
The study also found demographic differences in aspirin use. Adults aged 50–69 were more than twice as likely to take aspirin compared to those 70–80. Women and individuals with a household income of $60,000 or more were also more likely to be using aspirin for primary prevention.
“Aspirin use is much more of a complex question than it once seemed,” said Dr. Geoffrey Barnes, associate professor of internal medicine-cardiology at U-M. “That’s why it’s so important to speak with a healthcare provider when considering its use.”
Key takeaway: While aspirin may still be beneficial for some, especially those with prior cardiovascular conditions, taking it without medical advice could pose serious health risks for many older adults.
