A daily low-dose aspirin has been recommended by a group of experts for certain people. The common painkiller has been given a green light for improving heart health and preventing colorectal cancer. The United States Preventative Services Task Force is limiting the daily dosage to a strict list of requirements including people with a high risk of heart disease.
In addition, the government group is advising the daily aspirin for people with a low risk of bleeding side-effects. The task force is recommending an aspirin a day for people who are between the ages of 50 to 59 years old and have a life expectancy of at least one decade.
A daily aspirin is suggested for preventing various conditions including stroke, heart attack, and colorectal cancer.
Dr. Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo is a professor of medicine, epidemiology, and biostatistics at the University of California at San Francisco. She explains that doctors and patients must weigh the risks and benefits of taking aspirin, according to CBS News. The drug provides more benefits than risks for people in their 50s who are at risk of cardiovascular disease.
In addition, the task force suggests that patients talk to their physicians about their risk of heart disease and bleeding before deciding to take a daily aspirin. However, Bibbins-Domingo notes that it is critical for people in their 60s.
Heart disease causes one-quarter of deaths in the US every year. Meanwhile, the American Cancer Society reports that colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer diagnosed in men and women, and a top cause of cancer deaths.
Experts recommend taking a low-dose baby aspirin. CBS News medical contributor Dr. Tara Narula shares that taking more than 81 milligrams of aspirin could increase the risk of bleeding.
In related news, a 5-year study conducted by scientists from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom shows that Vitamin D3 can benefit people with chronic heart failure, according to DNA India. They learned that taking a Vitamin D supplement can improve the heart's pumping action of people with weak heart muscles. Most patients with that condition are over 75 years old and their bodies produce less Vitamin D from sunlight exposure.
Here are some unusual ways to use aspirin: