An enormous new investigation has discovered that solid more established grown-ups taking a drawn out low portion of ibuprofen might be at expanded hazard of creating paleness. According to the findings, these patients may require ongoing monitoring, according to the researchers.
Aspirin is frequently used in low doses to prevent heart attacks and strokes or their recurrence due to its blood-thinning properties. While it is common knowledge that aspirin can cause bleeding, very few studies have examined how long-term low-dose aspirin use affects anemia risk in older adults.
When there are not enough healthy red blood cells, anemia occurs. Hemoglobin, an iron-containing protein, is the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. When there are fewer of these cells, less oxygen reaches the organs and tissues, which can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and rapid heartbeat. A lack of vitamin B12, folic acid, or iron, as well as chronic conditions like kidney disease, cancer, or rheumatoid arthritis, can result in anemia.
The ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial, a long-term, multi-center study of aspirin and health in older adults, was the focus of a new Australian study that looked at how taking low-dose aspirin over time affects the risk of anemia.
Over a period of four and a half years, the researchers followed 18,153 initially healthy adults aged 70 or older from Australia and the United States. The remaining half of the participants received a placebo and took a daily low dose of aspirin (100 mg).
They discovered that the group taking aspirin had a 20% higher risk of anemia than the placebo group. In addition, they discovered that the aspirin-taking group had lower ferritin levels and a faster decline in hemoglobin levels. Ferritin is an iron-containing blood protein. There was no significant bleeding to account for the low levels of ferritin and hemoglobin.
Zoe McQuilten, the study’s lead author, stated, “This study gives a clearer picture of the additional risk of becoming anemic with aspirin use, and the impact is likely to be greater in older adults with underlying diseases such as kidney disease.”
The findings of the study, according to the researchers, suggest that healthy older adults taking aspirin should be monitored more frequently for anemia symptoms.
According to McQuilten, “Older adults are generally more likely to become anemic,” and “now doctors can potentially identify patients at higher risk of developing anemia.”
However, the researchers warn against discontinuing aspirin use or altering dosages without first consulting a physician, particularly if the medication is being used to prevent blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes.
