It's long-standing advice followed by millions of Americans, an aspirin a day can prevent a first heart attack. But now a major about-face, new guidelines from the American Heart Association now say adults over 70 should not be taking the drug. Aspirin isn't harmless. The new recommendation comes after three large studies found that aspirin did not prevent heart attacks and strokes in older adults. In fact, taking it every day raised the risk of serious harm like stomach and brain bleeding.
Those who should not take aspirin include people over 70, anyone who does not have heart disease, anyone at risk for bleeding. For someone who's taking aspirin right now, what should they do? People are taking aspirin should not just stop. They should have a conversation with a physician and really determined their individual risk versus benefit. Dr. Torres joins us now. Who should still be on aspirin? So people who have already had a heart attack or stroke, for them a daily aspirin can be life-saving. People who are at a high risk of their first heart attack or stroke should consider the pros and cons of taking aspirin with their doctor though before they start taking. All right, Dr. Torres thank you.