Aspirin No Help for Stroke Outcomes

A new study just published in Stroke, Journal of the American Heart Association, showed that using low dose aspirin did not decrease the overall incidence of stroke or improve outcomes following a stroke.

 The Women's Health Study, a clinical trial run by the N.I.H, looked at randomized low-dose aspirin and Vitamin E in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease and cancer.

This study showed that there was no significant difference in total stroke incidence between women randomized to 100 mg of aspirin every other day and those randomized to placebo. 

So, this begs the question, if you do take low-dose aspirin daily, why? 

Before we discuss why, how about the study in the June 6, 2012 issue of JAMA, 

Association of Aspirin Use With Major Bleeding in Patients With and Without Diabetes.

The authors concluded, "... aspirin use was significantly associated with an increased risk of major gastrointestinal or cerebral bleeding episodes." Yikes!

So, once again, why do you take low-dose aspirin?

How about making dietary improvements, starting an exercise program, and supplementing with a high quality fish oil!

Take control of your life and get off the medical band-wagon!