Should You Be Taking Aspirin?

A new study suggests that some people who are age 70 and older may be better off not using aspirin to protect themselves against cardiovascular disease. Theoretical calculations show that aspirin therapy could cause 57% more life-threatening hemorrhages in this age group.

However, older people who have diabetes, high blood pressure or other major cardiovascular risk factors are likely to benefit from aspirin therapy.

Bottom line: If you are currently on aspirin therapy, talk with your physician about whether you should continue taking aspirin daily.