Several studies and recommendations have recently been published on the cardiovascular uses of aspirin. A summary of the latest information follows. For additional information on the study please click on the name to go to the actual research.

Based on a meta-analysis sponsored by the US government (January 2002), the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) urges that patients at risk and their doctors discuss the risks and benefits of an aspirin regimen for the heart. According to the study, patients that fall into the following categories may be at elevated risk for cardiovascular events (such as heart attacks) should be considered for aspirin therapy if their cumulative risk is greater than 3% over 5 years or 6% over 10 years:

• Men over 40, Women over 50
• Post menopausal women
• Patients with high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease
• Smoker

According to the task force, because the life-saving benefits of aspirin often outweigh the increased risk of bleeding events, such as hemorrhagic stroke, all patients who have this level of risk should be evaluated to determine if aspirin therapy is an appropriate measure. These recommendations include uses of aspirin not yet approved by the FDA.