New Research Links Daily Aspirin Usage to Increased Anemia Risk in Older Adults
A new study conducted by Monash University has found that prolonged daily aspirin consumption may contribute to an increased risk of anemia in older adults. The research, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, analyzed data from the landmark ASPREE trial and revealed a 20 percent higher risk of anemia in individuals aged 70 and above who used aspirin regularly.
Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood, which leads to decreased oxygen transport to the body’s tissues. Common symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath. The causes of anemia can vary, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to chronic diseases. Therefore, treatments for anemia depend on its underlying cause.
The ASPREE trial followed 18,153 initially healthy older adults in Australia and the USA over an average of 4.7 years. Half of the participants took a placebo, while the other half consumed a daily low dose (100mg) of aspirin. The study recorded incidents of anemia during this period and found that the risk of developing anemia was 20 percent higher in the aspirin group compared to the placebo group. This makes it the largest study to investigate anemia in older people as part of a randomized controlled trial.
In addition to the increased risk of anemia, blood tests conducted during the study revealed a faster decline of hemoglobin and reduced ferritin levels (a protein that carries iron) in the aspirin group compared to the placebo group. These findings are significant as anemia is commonly experienced by older adults and can impair overall function, increase fatigue, and contribute to disabilities, depressive symptoms, and cognitive problems.
Lead author Associate Professor Zoe McQuilten from Monash University’s School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine emphasized that while bleeding is a known side effect of aspirin, few previous studies have examined the impact of prolonged aspirin use on the progressive development of anemia in older adults. She also highlighted that the risk and impact of anemia from aspirin usage are likely to be greater in older adults with underlying diseases, such as kidney disease.
Based on the study’s findings, researchers recommend routine anemia checks for elderly individuals who regularly use low-dose aspirin. They also advise such adults to consult their general practitioners regarding any health or medication concerns. Associate Professor McQuilten noted that the research provides doctors with insight into the risk of anemia associated with prolonged aspirin use in their older patients, enabling them to potentially identify those at higher risk.
However, Associate Professor McQuilten cautioned against patients changing their aspirin regimen without consulting their doctors. In some cases, aspirin is recommended as a valuable therapy to prevent recurring heart attacks or stroke in older adults. Each patient’s specific circumstances and needs must be considered before making any changes to their medication routine.
The study was funded by the National Institute on Aging, the National Cancer Institute, the National Health and Medical Research Council, and the Victorian Cancer Agency.