Study Examines Aspirin and Statin Use Among Older Americans

A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society and cited by EurekAlert indicates that while adults aged 75 years and older do not benefit from taking aspirin to prevent cardiovascular disease, many still choose to do so on a regular basis. The research further found that, although statins are known to help prevent heart problems in seniors who have experienced a cardiovascular event, many do not take a statin. The analysis included data on nearly 11,400 U.S. adults 50 years and older who were polled from 2011 to 2018. Investigators found that over 50 percent took aspirin or a statin. The study's lead author, Dr. Greg Rhee of the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, comments, "Healthcare providers should inform their older patients about appropriate aspirin use so that they can avoid misuse of aspirin, which can be easily purchased over the counter. Ultimately, safer prescribing practice, patient education, and patient-oriented effectiveness research should be continually encouraged to reduce potential harms and improve cardiovascular health in older adults."