Alternate-day Aspirin Effects on Combined Risks in Women
Alternate-day use of low-dose aspirin for primary prevention is ineffective or harmful in the majority of women with regard to the combined risk of CVD, cancer and major gastrointestinal bleeding. Age is the most important determinant of aspirin treatment effect, and the protective effects of aspirin with regard to CVD increased with age. Although the excess risk of major gastrointestinal bleeding by aspirin is higher in women ≥65 years of age, selective treatment of this group is may improve net benefit.
Conclusions
Alternate-day use of low-dose aspirin for primary prevention is ineffective or harmful in the majority of women with regard to the combined risk of CVD, cancer and major gastrointestinal bleeding. Age is the most important determinant of aspirin treatment effect, and the protective effects of aspirin with regard to CVD increased with age. Although the excess risk of major gastrointestinal bleeding by aspirin is higher in women ≥65 years of age, selective treatment of this group is may improve net benefit.