In a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal, former President Donald Trump revealed that he takes a daily dose of aspirin that exceeds the recommended amount set by his healthcare providers. At the age of 79, Trump has been consuming 325 milligrams of aspirin every day for the past 25 years, which is four times higher than the standard low-dose of 81 milligrams typically advised for cardiovascular disease prevention.
Trump stated, "They say aspirin is good for thinning out the blood, and I don't want thick blood pouring through my heart. I want nice, thin blood pouring through my heart. Does that make sense?" This comment highlights his personal belief in the benefits of aspirin for heart health. However, medical guidelines suggest a more conservative approach to aspirin use.
Since 2022, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has advised against starting a daily aspirin regimen for individuals over 60 who do not have pre-existing health issues. The Task Force recommends considering the discontinuation of aspirin for those already taking it around the age of 75. This shift in guidelines emphasizes the importance of evaluating the necessity of aspirin on a case-by-case basis.
Aspirin belongs to the same class of medications as ibuprofen and naproxen. At low doses, it effectively reduces the production of a substance in the body that promotes blood clot formation. Commonly used for alleviating headaches and pain, aspirin is also utilized as a prophylactic medication for approximately one in seven older Americans.
Experts generally recommend a daily intake of 81 milligrams of aspirin to mitigate the risk of cardiovascular issues. This lower dose, previously referred to as "baby aspirin," is now the standard recommendation, especially since higher doses have not shown additional benefits in large-scale studies, including one published in 2021.
Dr. Eleanor Levin, a preventive cardiologist at Stanford Medicine, noted that while some patients may tolerate the higher 325 milligram dose, it is still deemed unnecessary for most individuals. Certain patients, such as those who have undergone heart bypass surgery or experienced a heart attack, may need to continue low-dose aspirin throughout their lives regardless of age.
While aspirin is generally safer than other blood thinners, even low doses can increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in the stomach and brain. Although such adverse effects are rarely fatal, the risk of bleeding does escalate with age. Dr. Levin points out that alcohol consumption can further amplify this risk. Common side effects include bruising and minor cuts, which Trump has reportedly experienced, with his physician attributing these issues to aspirin use.
Despite Trump's higher aspirin intake, Dr. Levin believes that it is unlikely to pose a life-threatening risk. However, she does not advocate for her patients to use higher doses without specific medical justification. Historically, doses above 2,400 milligrams have been associated with significant safety concerns and should be approached with caution.
Dr. Levin emphasizes the importance of informed discussions regarding the risks and benefits of aspirin therapy. "We go by the literature and the studies, and they follow my advice," she stated, highlighting the need for personalized medical guidance.
As discussions around aspirin use continue, it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks, particularly for older adults. While Trump's experience may spark interest, medical professionals advocate for a tailored approach that considers individual health circumstances and adheres to established guidelines for cardiovascular health.