Dublin, Ireland – A recent study challenges current guidelines on aspirin use for preventing heart disease, suggesting a personalized approach may be more beneficial. Researchers from heart disease field have identified a subgroup of patients for whom the international aspirin use guidelines may not be applicable, raising questions about the one-size-fits-all approach.
Published in the medical journal Circulation, the study analyzed data from three clinical trials involving over 47,000 patients across 10 countries, including the US, UK, and Australia, shedding light on the effectiveness of aspirin in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease.
The analysis focused on a subgroup of 7,222 patients who were already taking aspirin before the trials began, revealing that those who discontinued aspirin had a higher risk of heart disease or stroke compared to those who continued the medication. Additionally, the study found no significant difference in the risk for major bleeding between the two groups of patients.
Lead researcher Professor J. William McEvoy emphasized the importance of a balanced approach to aspirin use, noting that while international guidelines no longer recommend routine use of aspirin for primary prevention, the medication remains beneficial for high-risk adults who have already experienced a cardiovascular event.
The study also highlighted the need for further research to determine the best course of action for patients already safely taking aspirin for primary prevention. Professor McEvoy noted that until more evidence becomes available, it is reasonable for these patients to continue with low-dose aspirin unless new risk factors for aspirin-related bleeding arise.
The findings from this study challenge the traditional approach to aspirin use and underscore the need for personalized recommendations based on individual risk factors. As research in this area continues to evolve, healthcare providers may need to reconsider their approach to aspirin therapy for primary prevention of heart disease and stroke.