by John Boguhn

Created on: August 26, 2009   Last Updated: August 28, 2009

What is the truth behind "aspirin therapy?" Television ads suggest that an aspirin a day will help prevent heart attacks and strokes. There is some truth in that statement, but it is not that simple. According to the article at MayoClinic.com, "Daily aspirin therapy isn't appropriate for everyone." There are many variables to consider; age, gender and medical history being just some. The article "Daily aspirin therapy: Understanding the benefits and risks" also states, " You should consider aspirin therapy only if you've had a heart attack or stroke, or you're at high risk of either. And then only with your doctors approval."

Aspirin or acetylsalicylic acid is a derivative of salicylic acid; a mild nonnarcotic analgesic used to reduce pain. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, the body chemicals that sensitize nerve ending to pain and also serve to clot the blood. Aspirin prevents the blood-clotting cells called "platelets" from collecting in narrowed blood vessels. Atherosclerosis ( the term for the accumulation of fatty deposits in arteries) can quickly cause blood clots that block arteries, preventing the flow of blood to the heart or brain. This can lead to a heart attack or even a stroke. Aspirin therapy can reduce the clustering of platelets, helping to minimize the risk of such events.

Aspirin therapy, though a proven weapon in the battle against heart disease, is not the best choice for everyone. According to the MayoClinic.com article certain condition may prevent the use of aspirins. Such conditions are:

* A bleeding or clotting disorder

* Asthma

* Stomach ulcers

* Heart failure

Also the use of medication or supplements needs to be discussed with your doctor. Ibuprofen when taken with aspirin can neutralize its effect. Also if taken with other anticoagulants such as Warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin can increase excess bleeding. As stated by Dr. Carl J. Lavie, medical director of cardiac rehabilitation at the Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute in New Orleans, "The benefits of aspirin use always has to be balanced against the risk. If a patient has low risk of events in the near future, aspirin should not be prescribed."

Other indicators also dictate the effectiveness of aspirin therapy. According to the report in U.S. News, Health Day posted March 26, 2009, "The new U.S. Preventive Service Task Force guidelines are tailored to match age and gender." They suggest that for men 45 to 79 at risk of a heart attack, and women ages 55 to

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