A new collaborative study has been into the effectiveness of aspirin on preventing illnesses and health problems such as heart disease, strokes and low blood pressure in patients aged over 70.

 

Previous studies have shown that low-dose aspirin may assist in delaying the onset of illnesses, reduce the risk of some vascular events, help prevent cognitive decline from dementia and also reduce the risk of death from some forms of cancer, such as bowel cancer.

 

The five-year study - named ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) - will investigate the health benefits of long-term, low-dose aspirin use compared to any risks involved. It will be conducted through general practices located throughout metropolitan Melbourne, regional Tasmania, Victoria and Canberra.

 

It will be undertaken by Monash University in conjunction with the Menzies Research Institute of Tasmania, the Australian National University, University of Melbourne and the Berman Centre for Outcomes and Clinical Research in the United States.