USPSTF has released draft recommendations on aspirin to prevent colon cancer and cardiovascular disease

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has published a draft recommendation for the use of aspirin to prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer.

According to the Task Force, taking aspirin can help prevent colorectal cancer, but should only be taken in low doses by certain people.

Only those who are not at increased risk of bleeding and have at least a 10 year life expectancy should take low-dose aspirin every day, according to the draft recommendation which is open to public comment until October.

The draft proposal added that this advice only applies to those between 50 and 70 years of age. "Taking aspirin is easy, but deciding whether or not to take aspirin for prevention is complex," says Task Force vice chair Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, MD.

"People aged 50 to 69 should talk with their doctor about their risk of cardiovascular disease and risk of bleeding, and discuss whether taking aspirin is right for them." 

Source: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

Reference: Aspirin for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Events: A Systematic Evidence Review for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force