U.S. Task Force Says Folks 60 and Up Shouldn’t Use Aspirin Daily to Prevent Heart Disease or Strokes, Could Cause More Harm Than Good

Adults 60 and older should not take aspirin daily to prevent heart disease or strokes, per an announcement from the U.S. task force.

On Tuesday, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force announced it would be making some changes to its guidance on using aspirin to avoid heart disease for people of a specific age group. The notice said that people between 40 and 59 – who have a higher risk of getting cardiovascular disease and don’t have a history of it – should consult with their physicians about whether it is a good idea to take aspirin.

In addition, the task force mentioned new evidence shows aspirin could negatively affect 60 and older folks who take the drug to prevent heart disease and strokes, CNN reports.

In a statement, Task Force member Dr. Chien-Wen Tseng wrote, “The latest evidence is clear: starting a daily aspirin regimen in people who are 60 or older to prevent a first heart attack or stroke is not recommended.” Tseng continued, saying, “However, this Task Force recommendation is not for people already taking aspirin for a previous heart attack or stroke; they should continue to do so unless told otherwise by their clinician.”